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# RSDSA

40 years of helping those affected by CRPS

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://rsds.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Comfort, Relief, and Support: A Meaningful Gift Guide for CRPS Warriors](https://rsds.org/giftguide/) - We've spoken to numerous CRPS Warriors over the years about the everyday items they love as well as the gifts they reach for during flares and treatment days.
- [Instagram Links](https://rsds.org/links/) - Read the April 2026 Edition of In Rare Form Read the latest on the RSDSA Blog WMBF News: Dozens gather in Conway to walk for CRPS awareness Upcoming Events Friday, June 26 - Monday, June 29, 2026 - Young Adult Weekend Retreat - Scottsdale, Arizona Tuesday, June 30, 2026 - Karen “Lexi” Alexandra Richards Uslu
- [WMBF News: Dozens gather in Conway to walk for CRPS awareness](https://rsds.org/wmbf-news-dozens-gather-in-conway-to-walk-for-crps-awareness/) - More than a dozen people gathered at the Conway, SC Riverwalk on Saturday June 6, 2026 to raise awareness for CRPS.
- [How to Complete an In Memoriam Donation to RSDSA](https://rsds.org/how-to-complete-an-in-memoriam-donation-to-rsdsa/) - Many individuals reach out to RSDSA in order to complete an "In Honor/In Memory" gift for a loved one with CRPS. Enclosed are answers to frequently asked questions regarding this process.
- [New U.S. Clinical Trial of Neridronate](https://rsds.org/new-u-s-clinical-trial-of-neridronate/) - May 2026 update: Learn More About the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome-Relief and Improvement Study for Efficacy -- In the last fifteen years, only two randomized, placebo-controlled trials for CRPS have been conducted in the United States. Sadly, both were unsuccessful. Our optimism is rising, however, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s declaration in 2014
- [A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins With a Single Step](https://rsds.org/a-journey-of-a-thousand-miles-begins-with-a-single-step/) - No one truly understands this life unless they live it. That’s why having someone you can talk to is essential.
- [Five Minutes That Changed Everything](https://rsds.org/five-minutes-that-changed-everything/) - There is hope. Remission is possible. With the right medical support, early intervention, and determination, recovery can happen.
- [Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: A New Paradigm for CRPS Treatment](https://rsds.org/ketamine-assisted-therapy-a-new-paradigm-for-crps-treatment/) - Ketamine can be delivered in several ways, each with unique characteristics regarding onset and depth of experience.
- [Learn More About the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome-Relief and Improvement Study for Efficacy](https://rsds.org/learn-more-about-the-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-relief-and-improvement-study-for-efficacy/) - CRPS-RISE is a clinical research trial testing an investigational medicine called neridronate. The trial will help researchers learn whether this medicine can help reduce pain in adults with CRPS Type 1.
- [When No One Believed Him: A Mother’s Fight and a Son’s Strength](https://rsds.org/when-no-one-believed-him/) - Invisible Illness is not any less painful than an illness that can be seen with the naked eye.
- [Every Day Is Challenging, but She Tries to Remain Positive](https://rsds.org/every-day-is-challenging-but-she-tries-to-remain-positive/) - Learn all you can about CRPS and ask a lot of questions. Try to stay positive and don’t give up.
- [Do Not Let This Define Who You Are](https://rsds.org/do-not-let-this-define-who-you-are/) - Stay strong! I know it’s easier to say than to do, but that is what will get you through the bad days, weeks, and years.
- [What Is the Difference Between Peripheral Neuropathy and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?](https://rsds.org/what-is-the-difference-between-peripheral-neuropathy-and-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/) - Because my practice is focused on patients with severe foot and ankle pain syndromes, I treat people with both peripheral neuropathy and CRPS.
- [How Learning the Neuroscience of Pain Helps | CRPS Scholarship Available](https://rsds.org/how-learning-the-neuroscience-of-pain-helps-crps-scholarship-available/) - Read as Leslie Rowe discusses what helped her find relief, a scholarship she is funding for a self-guided course, and how she encourages those with CRPS.
- [CRPS/RSD & Surgery](https://rsds.org/crps-rsd-surgery/) - Written by Debbie ONeal for the RSDSA blog. The first thing that pops into my mind when I hear “surgery is needed “is pain. Then it jumps to will it spread? Then I worry about why I need surgery to begin with. I know a lot of us have horror stories about going to the
- [The New Front Line of Patient Advocacy: PDABs and the Trouble with QALYs](https://rsds.org/the-new-front-line-of-patient-advocacy-pdabs-and-the-trouble-with-qalys/) - There is a new acronym in the healthcare landscape that might determine whether you can access your medication at all: PDABs.
- [A Journey To Relief: Tony’s Story](https://rsds.org/a-journey-to-relief-tonys-story/) - Proclaim DRG Therapy is a novel neurostimulation technology that relieves pain at the source by interrupting pain signals at the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) before they reach the spinal cord
- [How to Obtain the Best Medical Care for CRPS](https://rsds.org/how-to-obtain-the-best-medical-care-for-crps/) - Written by Steven Feinberg, MD, MPH Board Certified, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Board Certified, Pain Medicine Feinberg Medical Group Palo Alto, CA and Rachel Feinberg, PT, DPT Director, Physical Therapy & Functional Restoration Program Feinberg Medical Group Palo Alto, CA for the RSDSA blog. If you are reading this, it means you, a friend, or a
- [Complex Regional Pain Syndrome - What To Do About It](https://rsds.org/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-brady/) - By Dr. David Brady This blog was initially titled Complex Regional Pain Syndrome- What Is It And What To Do About It. It was featured on Fibrofix. To learn more about Dr. Brady, you can click here. Here, Dr. Brady writes about what Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is and how to approach it. Chronic pain
- [Medication Summary for Intractable Pain, CRPS/RSD](https://rsds.org/medication-summary-intractable-pain-rsd/) - The following blog post was written on 11/6/16 by Nancy Sajben, MD. Shared with permission. I spoke only briefly this morning at the RSDSA conference but there is so much to add. Most importantly, thanks to RSDSA for helping so many people with CRPS. They fund pain research, they are starting a free children’s camp,
- [Pain and Activity](https://rsds.org/pain-and-activity/) - Dig into the following suggested techniques you can use to maximize your functioning.
- [CRPS and The Digestive System](https://rsds.org/crps-and-the-digestive-system/) - If you suffer from CRPS, you should familiarize yourself with the vagus nerve, as it is a major player in building the puzzle that forms CRPS.
- [RSDSA Resources Research](https://rsds.org/july2020survey/) - RSDSA has received many requests for dentists, workers comp attorneys, and disability attorneys who know and understand CRPS.
- [Faces of Pain](https://rsds.org/faces-of-pain/) - Why are you causing the faces of pain to suffer needlessly?
- [Nerve Pain Is Hard to Explain](https://rsds.org/nerve-pain-is-hard-to-explain/) - With more knowledge comes more treatments and the possibility of a cure.
- [Hit The Ground Running With Everything You Have](https://rsds.org/hit-the-ground-running-with-everything-you-have/) - We can do anything as human beings we want to, we just have to believe.
- [Be kind to yourself. Don't beat yourself up.](https://rsds.org/lisa-folsom/) - Listen in as Lisa details how a 2015 injury caused her CRPS, her diagnosis, education for friends and family, treatments, and much more.
- [How Art and Apps Helped My CRPS](https://rsds.org/how-art-and-apps-helped-my-crps/) - Those of us with CRPS need to be able to make life changes to bring our stress levels down permanently.
- [Finding A Lawyer For a Workers' Compensation Case](https://rsds.org/finding-a-lawyer-for-a-workers-compensation-case/) - Any WC case can be difficult, but a WC case that involves CRPS is typically even more difficult for a few reasons.
- [New Ways to Give to RSDSA](https://rsds.org/new-ways-to-give-to-rsdsa/) - Here are a few ways you can donate to RSDSA so we can continue to provide support, education, and hope to all affected by the pain and disability of CRPS.
- [Take Control of Your Journey](https://rsds.org/take-control-of-your-journey/) - Take control of your journey. And almost as important, try to build a great support system.
- [Why We Walk](https://rsds.org/why-we-walk/) - Today we Walk for CRPS.
- [Keep Your Head up High and Keep Going](https://rsds.org/keep-your-head-up-high-and-keep-going/) - Some days you feel bad complaining about the pain thinking there are others who have it so much worse than you do. But learn to never give up.
- [We Are All Warriors Now and in This Together](https://rsds.org/we-are-all-warriors-now-and-in-this-together/) - I believe we are only given what we can overcome, so you will get through this.
- [There’s So Much More Out There for Me to Live For](https://rsds.org/theres-so-much-more-out-there-for-me-to-live-for/) - I hear you. I see you. I feel what you feel.
- [Let Us Know That Our Capabilities Are Enough](https://rsds.org/let-us-know-that-our-capabilities-are-enough/) - I truly believe that CRPS gives you a unique perspective on life and being able to connect with others.
- [FAQs - RSDSA's Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness Conference - 2021](https://rsds.org/2021conferencefaqs/) - The RSDSA team is excited to have you join our second virtual conference from October 25th through October 28th. Below are a few FAQs to ensure you have an amazing experience!
- [Ending the Negative Cycle of Suicidal Thoughts: A Toolkit of Hope](https://rsds.org/ending-the-negative-cycle-of-suicidal-thoughts-a-toolkit-of-hope/) - Suicide is a dark place, and if you are currently seeking the light, you know how difficult it can be to find that light switch. There are times when you think you’ve found the way out only to find it’s a dead end. In addition to suicidal thoughts, depression can cause appetite changes, disruption in
- [Looking Forward, Together](https://rsds.org/looking-forward-together/) - Your year-end gift has a direct and meaningful impact.
- [Tonko, Miller-Meeks Introduce Resolution on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Awareness Month](https://rsds.org/tonko-miller-meeks-introduce-resolution-on-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy-awareness-month/) - Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) and Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) today announced the introduction of a bipartisan resolution designating November as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Awareness Month.
- [I Never Gave Up](https://rsds.org/i-never-gave-up/) - The pain is not easy, but we try our best to push through.
- [New CRPS Discovery from McGill University](https://rsds.org/new-crps-discovery-from-mcgill-university/) - McGill University researchers, in collaboration with colleagues in Israel and Ireland, have developed AI technology that can detect patterns in gut bacteria to identify CRPS with remarkable accuracy, potentially transforming how CRPS is diagnosed and treated.
- [Guest Blog: After 20 Years of CRPS/RSD Pain, Relief Has Finally Arrived With Journavx!](https://rsds.org/after-20-years-of-crps-rsd-pain-relief-has-finally-arrived-with-journavx/) - I don't get those years or my youth back. I do get to go on with my life relatively pain free because of Journavx.
- [My Path To Surviving CRPS Torture](https://rsds.org/my-path-to-surviving-crps-torture/) - You must grab on to and not let go of even the smallest thing that takes your mind away from CRPS or any other problem you may have.
- [September is Pain Awareness Month!](https://rsds.org/september-is-pain-awareness-month/) - Throughout the month of September, RSDSA will participate in the US Pain Foundation’s #ThisIsPain awareness campaign on social media and we invite you to join us!
- [Advocacy Pays Off](https://rsds.org/advocacy-pays-off/) - It is easy to be awed or intimidated by people serving in Congress, but we must remember two things: 1) they are human with all the strengths and deficits people have, and 2) they chose to accept a position that serves their constituents.
- [Do You Suspect You or Your Child Has CRPS? Here is How to Self-Diagnose to Know if You Need to Seek Help](https://rsds.org/do-you-suspect-you-or-your-child-has-crps-here-is-how-to-self-diagnose-to-know-if-you-need-to-seek-help/) - The Netflix documentary Take Care of Maya has raised awareness of, and many questions about, CRPS.
- [CRPS Awareness Day 11: A CRPS Veteran on Veterans Day](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day11-veteran-day/) - By Shara Wilkey, Capt. USMC Ret. I graduated from Fountain Valley High School after marching I President Ronald Regan’s Inaugural Parade plating the Tuba. I auditioned for the US Marine Corps Band about two-months after returning from Washington DC. Within a month of graduating high school I was at Parris Island, South Carolina at boot
- [Please Urge Congress to Protect Pain Research](https://rsds.org/please-urge-congress-to-protect-pain-research/) - The US Pain Foundation has a simple online form you can use to send a message to your congressional representatives.
- [Managing CRPS Is a Multi-Model Approach](https://rsds.org/managing-crps-is-a-multi-model-approach/) - Always be your own advocate, especially within the medical system. Fight until you find a team of doctors that will listen to you, support you and research for you.
- [Fall Conference Early Bird Pricing Ends July 25th](https://rsds.org/fall-conference-early-bird-pricing-ends-july-25th/) - We are looking forward to coming together at the Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel in Irving, Texas to discuss the latest updates on CRPS, hear from experts, and to network with others who truly understand.
- [After Thirteen Years of Unspeakable Suffering I Got My Life Back](https://rsds.org/after-thirteen-years-of-unspeakable-suffering-i-got-my-life-back/) - When we turned on the Medtronic Intellis at my follow-up appointment, I experienced complete pain relief. My arm color returned to normal, and I regained full use of the motor function in my arm with no tremor.
- [Do Not Ignore CRPS](https://rsds.org/do-not-ignore-crps/) - Written by Michelle Kellogg for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I was officially diagnosed October 20, 2016, but we believe I originally developed it in January 2015 after surgery. It was my second surgery on that limb, a simple surgery just to remove hardware that we believed I was allergic
- [Retrospective Analysis of Liver Function Post Intravenous Ketamine for Treating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome](https://rsds.org/retrospective-analysis-of-liver-function-post-intravenous-ketamine-for-treating-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/) - Researchers and physicians, including Dr. Pradeep Chopra, Dr. Philip Getson, and Dr. Jay Joshi, analyzed the medical records of 52 patients who received IV ketamine and not one of them had an abnormal liver function test.
- [10 Years of Helping Kids With Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/10-years-of-helping-kids-with-chronic-pain/) - Since 2015, RSDSA has served as a co-sponsor for The Coalition Against Pediatric Pain’s (TCAPP) Pediatric Pain Week. We recently caught up with our Sue Pinkham about the decade-long relationship.
- [TSA Launches Toll Free Helpline for Travelers With Disabilities and Medical Needs](https://rsds.org/tsa-launches-toll-free-helpline-for-travelers-with-disabilities-and-medical-needs/) - TSA Cares will serve as an additional, dedicated resource for passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances or their loved ones who want to prepare for the screening process prior to flying.
- [Participate in a New CRPS Study in San Diego](https://rsds.org/participate-in-a-new-crps-study-in-san-diego/) - The trial consists of a pre-treatment screening period, six-week treatment period and a two-week follow-up.
- [Top Tips to Reduce Pain While Flying](https://rsds.org/reduce-pain-while-flying-with-crps/) - Written by Kristi Oen for the RSDSA blog. Editors note: TSA also has a toll free line for travelers who need extra assistance. Are you ready to fly away for vacation but you are slightly terrified of what your CRPS is going to do and how you can handle that? Well, let me give you
- [RSDSA Research Update](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-research-update/) - In a recent RSDSA-supported study published in BMC Molecular Medicine, scientists describe, for the first time, two biological subtypes of CRPS type 1 that are consistent across both skin and blood.
- [Self Advocacy: When It Feels Like It’s All Too Much](https://rsds.org/self-advocacy-when-it-feels-like-its-all-too-much2/) - Surviving and thriving in the face of this darkness is not easy. It requires choosing hope and intentionally lining up activities that give you a sense of meaning and purpose.
- [Buying Prescription Drugs from Canada is Now Legal in Florida](https://rsds.org/buying-prescription-drugs-from-canada-is-now-legal-in-florida/) - How does this affect Floridians and is this a model for other states?
- [Life Is Not a Contest. I LIVE at My Own Pace.](https://rsds.org/life-is-not-a-contest-i-live-at-my-own-pace/) - You are still YOU. Yes, there will be challenges but always remember this is a beautiful life to live.
- [Pharmacy Benefit Managers and the DRUG Act](https://rsds.org/pharmacy-benefit-managers-and-the-drug-act/) - This broken system disproportionately harms low-income individuals, seniors, and those with chronic illnesses who rely on life-saving prescriptions to manage their health.
- [March 2025 Legislative Update: Support the EXPERT Act](https://rsds.org/march-2025-legislative-update-support-the-expert-act/) - This legislation seeks to bridge the gap between rare disease expertise and regulatory expertise.
- [A Recap of Rare Disease Week 2025](https://rsds.org/a-recap-of-rare-disease-week-2025/) - Regardless of where you land on the political spectrum, your voice is needed. We each need to contact our representatives are ask them to protect funding for research and access to care for rare diseases.
- [The Veterans Health Administration Covers Ketamine](https://rsds.org/the-veterans-health-administration-covers-ketamine/) - Ketamine infusions have been proven effective in the treatment of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic pain (including intractable pain like CRPS).
- [We're Hiring A Social Media Intern for Spring 2025!](https://rsds.org/were-hiring-a-social-media-intern-for-spring-2025/) - We are seeking a motivated and creative intern to join our team in spring 2025. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to contribute to various projects and gain hands-on experience in the non-profit sector.
- [Cultivating Relationships with Your Representatives](https://rsds.org/cultivating-relationships-with-your-representatives/) - Building relationships with your Members of Congress is important to ensuring that CRPS patients are heard on Capitol Hill and policymakers are working to improve the lives of patients living with pain.
- [Preparing to Talk With Legislators With a One-Pager](https://rsds.org/preparing-to-talk-with-legislators-with-a-one-pager/) - A “one pager” helps effectively deliver your message and facilitates a productive conversation on the issues of importance to you and your organization.
- [A New Pain Killer on the Market: The Good and the Not So Good on Journavx](https://rsds.org/a-new-pain-killer-on-the-market-the-good-and-the-not-so-good-on-journavx/) - As with any medication, it is essential to weigh its benefits against potential risks and to consider individual patient needs when determining the most appropriate pain management strategy.
- [Advocacy Update | House Bill 6094 Protect Rare](https://rsds.org/advocacy-update-house-bill-6094-protect-rare/) - This bill is supported by more than 60 rare disease organizations, including the RSDSA.
- [You Are Your Expert](https://rsds.org/you-are-your-expert/) - CRPS is an unwelcome visitor in your life. Taking care of yourself and advocating for your own needs is essential.
- [10 Tips For Patient Advocacy](https://rsds.org/10-tips-for-patient-advocacy/) - Successful self-advocacy ensures needs are identified, personal goals are set, and concerns are shared. Additionally, it can build confidence, ensure informed health care decisions are made, and secure control of ongoing self-care.
- [Advocacy Update on S.2922/H.R.7164, The Advancing Research for Chronic Pain Act ](https://rsds.org/advocacy-update-on-s-2922-h-r-7164-the-advancing-research-for-chronic-pain-act/) - High-quality data is crucial to identify trends, risks, and consequences of pain, and to inform interventions aimed at improving care and patient outcomes while reducing costs to the U.S. health care system.
- [RSDSA's Concerns With the Project Rare Act and the Promising Pathways Act 2.0](https://rsds.org/rsdsas-concerns-with-the-project-rare-act-and-the-promising-pathways-act-2-0/) - RSDSA supports both bills in principle. RSDSA holds that our concerns over the weaknesses of these bills can be resolved.
- [Biofeedback for CRPS: Why Haven’t I Tried That?](https://rsds.org/biofeedback-for-crps-why-havent-i-tried-that/) - Learning deep relaxation techniques can be paired with a biofeedback device which measures skin temperature in order to help a CRPS sufferer learn to relax deeply.
- [Jodi's Story of Hope - DRG Stimulator and CRPS](https://rsds.org/jodi-drg-stimulator-crps/) - The following story of hope is about Jodi, a CRPS Warriors from Ainsworth Institute of Pain Management. "Jodi, like most women, does it all. She is a mom, Nonna, baker, kickboxing instructor, softball player, wife, sister, you name it! Jodi led a very active, very busy and very happy life. On April 17th, 2014 while
- [Stellate Ganglion Blocks for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome](https://rsds.org/stellate-ganglion-blocks-for-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/) - Stellate Ganglion Blocks (SGB) can be an excellent treatment option for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Recent advances in medical technology have significantly enhanced the procedure, extending the possibility of relief to more people.
- [If I’m Dating Someone, They Are Going to Have to See Me on My Bad Days](https://rsds.org/if-im-dating-someone-they-are-going-to-have-to-see-me-on-my-bad-days/) - Dating while suffering from CRPS is extremely difficult. Most of us want the companionship of another person who can come into our lives to add support and serve as a best friend who understands what you go through.
- [I Am Grateful for What I Have, but Sad About What I Lost](https://rsds.org/i-am-grateful-for-what-i-have-but-sad-about-what-i-lost/) - CRPS is no cake walk for any of us and there is no “right” answer for treatment. I believe each one of us has to find their own way.
- [My Story of Living with RSD And I'm Sticking To It](https://rsds.org/my-story-of-living-with-rsd-and-im-sticking-to-it/) - Written by Jennifer Jones for the RSDSA blog. After being diagnosed with RSD in 1997, my career had been forfeited and replaced with playing the roles of researcher, advocate, physician and pharmacist... as I was now a Professional Patient. The information on RSD was as abundant as it was scarce; so little was truly known
- [CRPS Awareness Day 7: Ketamine Treatment Information](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day-7-ketamine-treatment/) - Written by Guest Blogger Allison Wells, MD Dr. Wells shares her take on ketamine treatment information for CRPS. She offers insight to what she thinks works best, the effects CRPS can have on a person, and the impact of infusions. Please note that this is Dr. Wells' opinion and we advise that all members of
- [The ADA Believes in Us](https://rsds.org/the-ada-believes-in-us/) - Whichever level of decision-making you are facing, please remember that the ADA was written for us and believes in our ability to hold down the right job. Accommodations aren’t special treatment; they are a civil right that people peacefully protested for.
- [Ten Questions With Jim Broatch](https://rsds.org/ten-questions-with-jim-broatch/) - Whether it be through linking patients with financial support, service dogs, legal aid, medical professionals, or accommodations at work, I loved helping and supporting people.
- [Gratitude in Leadership: A Heartfelt Tribute to Our Exceptional Executive Director](https://rsds.org/gratitude-in-leadership-a-heartfelt-tribute-to-our-exceptional-executive-director-part-i/) - Jim's legacy will continue through the numerous Warriors he has helped over the years. Take a look at the kind words and generous feedback we received since announcing his retirement.
- [It’s Challenging to Concentrate When Your Brain Is Always Signaling Your Body’s on Fire](https://rsds.org/its-challenging-to-concentrate-when-your-brain-is-always-signaling-your-bodys-on-fire/) - Some things I’d like others without CRPS/RSD to understand is that it’s challenging to concentrate when your brain is always signaling your body’s on fire. I’d also like them to understand that it’s more helpful to ask, “Can I help you in any way?” rather than saying “I’m sorry you’re in so much pain.”
- [24 Tips For People With CRPS](https://rsds.org/24-tips-people-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Jennifer Ginsburg Jennifer has been living with CRPS for 24 years. In her 24 years with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, she has learned a lot about herself and about the nature of CRPS. How can her experience help you? She created 24 tips to help you! As I just entered my 24th
- [I Have Hope That I Can Be a Light in the Darkness](https://rsds.org/i-have-hope-that-i-can-be-a-light-in-the-darkness/) - Since completing my program at Override after nine months of treatment, I have peace and joy five out of seven days a week. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty unbelievable compared to where I was.
- [RSDSA Executive Vice President & Director To Retire](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-executive-vice-president-to-retire/) - After 25 years of dedicated service and outstanding leadership to the CRPS/RSD community, our Executive Vice President & Director, James W. Broach, MSW, has decided to retire effective March 31, 2024. Jim’s leadership and contributions have been invaluable, and we are immensely grateful for his unwavering commitment to the CRPS community.
- [How Protected is Your Patient Data from Analytic Systems?](https://rsds.org/how-protected-is-your-patient-data-from-analytic-systems/) - Even RSDSA will be using patient data to identify potential CRPS patients. Moreover, your patient data, called Personal Health Information, or PHI, and Personally Identifiable Information, or PII, is analyzed by your insurer, accountable care organizations, integrated care organizations and many others outside of your physician’s office.
- [FDA Approves Full Body MRI for Abbott Proclaim DRG Neurostimulation Device for CRPS Lower Limb Treatment](https://rsds.org/fda-approves-full-body-mri-for-abbott-proclaim-drg-neurostimulation-device-for-crps-lower-limb-treatment/) - Abbott says four out of five people who are implanted with its Proclaim DRG device experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life.
- [My Transformation from a Life of Pain to Purpose](https://rsds.org/my-transformation-from-a-life-of-pain-to-purpose/) - How I have changed my life from fighting pain to fighting for a better life for all of us.
- [RSDSA’s Plan to Bring Ketamine on Label](https://rsds.org/rsdsas-plan-to-bring-ketamine-on-label/) - Ketamine use in treating CRPS for over two decades with tens of thousands of patients provides a strong track record of safety and effectiveness. So, why hasn’t the FDA approved it for CRPS/RSD?
- [No One Deserves to Live a Life in Pain](https://rsds.org/no-one-deserves-to-live-a-life-in-pain/) - The scars we carry represent who we are, where we’ve been and where we are going. We are entitled to be Warriors since our first cry. Never ever give up.
- [Join Abbott On Neurostimulation for Foot Pain Webinars Through March 2024](https://rsds.org/join-abbott-for-their-neurostimulation-for-foot-pain-events-through-october/) - Take note of Abbott's free national patient education event webinar series!
- [Centers For Disease Control And Prevention CDC Guidelines For Long Term Opiate Use](https://rsds.org/centers-for-disease-control-and-prevention-cdc-guidelines-for-long-term-opiate-use/) - The new guidelines for prescribing opioids, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have evolved to address the opioid crisis while ensuring appropriate pain management.
- [Take Care Of Maya Verdict Commentary with The Cochran Firm Texas' Bryan Pope, Esq. and RSDSA's Jim Broatch](https://rsds.org/takecareofmaya-verdict-commentary-with-the-cochran-firm-texas-bryan-pope-esq-and-rsdsas-jim-broatch/) - Watch as Bryan Pope, Esq. provides commentary on the "Take Care Of Maya" verdict along with Jim Broatch, RSDSA's Executive Vice President & Director.
- [Join us for Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness 2023](https://rsds.org/join-us-for-treating-the-whole-person-optimizing-wellness-2023/) - RSDSA's free virtual Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness conference is taking place Monday, November, 6 2023 through Thursday, November 9, 2023!
- [Special Report: The Take Care of Maya Trial – CRPS, Ketamine, Parental Rights and the Battle Over $220 Million](https://rsds.org/special-report-the-take-care-of-maya-trial-crps-ketamine-parental-rights-and-the-battle-over-220-million/) - Why are CRPS, ketamine and Maya herself the ones on trial?
- [I Have So Much to Be Thankful For](https://rsds.org/i-have-so-much-to-be-thankful-for/) - A very wise friend once told me to live life, and always work towards making my dreams come true.
- [It Was Easier to Judge Me Than to Try and Understand](https://rsds.org/it-was-easier-to-judge-me-than-to-try-and-understand/) - I am a CRPS Warrior who fights every day and I ask that you help support me and all the others who are suffering from this very misunderstood, debilitating disease.
- [An Energy Leader's Journey of a Thousand Miles](https://rsds.org/an-energy-leaders-journey-of-a-thousand-miles/) - She has a half marathon coming up. And when she participates in the New York race, the world’s largest marathon, it will be a significant date for her: “Two years after my brain surgery.” The next day, November 6, is Color the World Orange Day, created to bring recognition to CRPS.
- [Think Twice About Eating That - CRPS and Diet](https://rsds.org/crps-and-diet-guest/) - By Patricia Calderon, Guest Blogger for RSDSA Who would have ever thought that what we eat while having CRPS/RSD would cause us more pain then we already experience? I found out the hard way when my symptoms were getting worst and worst each day, then some days not so much. "There has to be a
- [I Became What Didn’t Exist for Myself](https://rsds.org/i-became-what-didnt-exist-for-myself/) - Disabled Advantage is dedicated to helping others with CRPS train their own service dog in the U.S., and coaching people with CRPS anywhere in the world.
- [A Keyword Gave Me an Instant Denial](https://rsds.org/a-keyword-gave-me-an-instant-denial/) - These are the kinds of delays in healthcare that are killing people every day in this country, all in the name of profit.
- [CRPS Awareness Day 19: Hot Tub, Cold Turkey](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day19-hot-tub-cold-turkey/) - By Guest Blogger Nancy Meagher Nancy details a day in her life with CRPS pain. A day of hot tubs, wine, and workout routines. What does Nancy learn through her journey through time? Find out! Submerged in the rough swirling water, my feet become redder than most. All ten of my half moon nail beds
- [CRPS, a New Four-Letter Word from Hell](https://rsds.org/anewfourletterword/) - Written by James Doulgeris for the RSDSA blog. August 30, 2018 is the first time I ever heard the letters CRPS, and they are four letters I can assure you that you will never want to hear preceded by “You have …” as I did. This is not my story, but one about the challenges
- [What Do You Mean Denied? I Can’t Do My Old Job!](https://rsds.org/what-do-you-mean-denied-i-cant-do-my-old-job/) - In the Regulations, Social Security has a 5 step analytical process called the “Sequential Evaluation Procedure” which is applied by every decision maker in the system.
- [I’m a Young Male Adult and Although Disabled, I Don’t Look It](https://rsds.org/im-a-young-male-adult-and-although-disabled-i-dont-look-it/) - Since I am disabled, I live on a fixed income and may not always be able to afford to do all the things I would like to do for someone. It often becomes very easy to feel defeated.
- [I Want to Help as Many as I Can](https://rsds.org/i-want-to-help-as-many-as-i-can/) - I want to help as many as I can so others do not have to walk down the rough road I had to walk down for many years.
- [Everyone Deserves Access to the Best](https://rsds.org/everyone-deserves-access-to-the-best/) - An activist’s dream. That’s how I would describe the trip back to Washington D.C. for the “People’s Action Organizing Revival: a call to revitalize the movement for social justice by strengthening skills of community organizing at every level, and in every organization.”
- [We Will Not Stop Fighting](https://rsds.org/we-will-not-stop-fighting/) - For the record, the FDA to this date has never approved anything for the treatment of CRPS. That fact is lost on the elected and our neighbors. It’s time to change that.
- [Supporting Role: CRPS Support Group Leader Awarded Hero of Hope By Stefani Kronk](https://rsds.org/supporting-role-crps-support-group-leader-awarded-hero-of-hope-by-stefani-kronk/) - This year, the organization determined that the time was opportune to recognize Sharon Weiner from Bridgewater, New Jersey, and to applaud her efforts on behalf of CRPS awareness.
- [We Are in Charge of Our Attitudes](https://rsds.org/we-are-in-charge-of-our-attitudes/) - Part of the psychology of recovery for me meant avoiding any negative information about CRPS, including negative articles, Internet chat rooms, stories, and research studies.
- [CRPS Wedding Chronicles – The Engagement](https://rsds.org/crps-chronicles-engagement/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator In 2015, I had one of my worst CRPS flare ups, thanks to a dislocation from EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome). It was scary to me because it was the one limb I had not experienced pain in. But, it happened and I was in a wheelchair. I fought my way
- [CRPS Wedding Chronicles: Venue Hunting](https://rsds.org/crps-wedding-venue/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator Last week, you were able to read about a bit of my engagement story. I got engaged in October and we instantly started planning (hey, I’m an event coordinator by trade, it was only natural). We signed up for all of the wedding planning websites, bought a giant wedding
- [CRPS Wedding Chronicles: The Dress](https://rsds.org/crps-wedding-chronicles-dress/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator It’s been a bit since I wrote about wedding planning with CRPS. But let me tell you, a lot has been going on behind the scenes. You think that starting to plan almost two years in advance would be enough, but obstacles do come up. If you want to
- [CRPS Wedding Chronicles: Photographers](https://rsds.org/crps-wedding-chronicles-photographers/) - By Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. I’m back! We’re officially less than a year away from my CRPS wedding. I’m taking you all on this journey with me. Believe it or not, I have shy tendencies. While I used to be able to perform at Celtics games, competitions, and recitals, that was with a
- [The CRPS Wedding Chronicles - Almost There!](https://rsds.org/crps-wedding-chronicles-almost-there/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator Getting closer to the wedding date, Samantha updates everyone on some of the tips she has learned through the wedding planning process with CRPS. What questions do you have for Samantha? She can answer them in the next edition! Hello friends! It’s been a while since I’ve update you
- [Judi Riley's Art of Storytelling with RSD - You Can Do It!](https://rsds.org/judi-rileys-art-storytelling-rsd/) - Interview Conducted by Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. Judi Riley is one of our fabulous Facebook community members. When we got word of her books with the incredible images that accompanied them, we knew we had to interview her. Judi, who has had CRPS since May of 2009, is an author, illustrator, graphic designer,
- [Knock Out Pain Together - An Inspirational Story of Coming Together](https://rsds.org/knock-out-pain-together/) - Sarah Phillips-O’Steen is an ally to the CRPS community. Ever since she was 2 years old, she has been witnessing what CRPS/RSD can do to a loved one. Her father, Julian Phillips, has been living in pain since his daughter was toddling around. As Sarah will tell you, he’s always been good at hiding his
- [CRPS Awareness Day 15: Young Chronicle Featuring Courtney](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day15-young-chronicle-courtney/) - Written by Ashley Epping Courtney developed CRPS when she was 14 years old in her right foot; seven years later at age 21, she is now a pre-med student at Gordon College studying biology. Unusual circumstances happened between Courtney’s story and my own. Courtney and I went to elementary school together in 2006; I then
- [Training for Life](https://rsds.org/training-for-life/) - This article is for those with CRPS who are searching for a different path to manage the syndrome. The path was filled with many unexpected turns, side roads, road blocks, incredible new people in my life, and constant discovery.
- [My Life’s Journey With RSD](https://rsds.org/my-lifes-journey-with-rsd/) - Written by Louise Plaster for the RSDSA blog. February 17, 1992 started out like any other day. I got up and got ready for work, got my daughter ready for school and then drove my 30 mile trip to work. When I got there I prepared the machines that I operated for the day’s run.
- [My Journey Is Not a Story of a Spontaneous Miracle](https://rsds.org/my-journey-is-not-a-story-of-a-spontaneous-miracle/) - I am a firm believer that CRPS can be defeated!
- [Endless Struggle With a New Twist](https://rsds.org/endless-struggle-with-a-new-twist/) - Determination, hard work, a loving and supportive family and yes, even an insurance company that was willing to listen, has given one patient with RSD endless opportunities for healing.
- [Workers Compensation 101: An Overview of WC for Employees With Work-related CRPS](https://rsds.org/workers-compensation-101-an-overview-of-wc-for-employees-with-work-related-crps/) - This article only will address WC issues in accordance with Pennsylvania law.
- [Lessons from the Front](https://rsds.org/lessons-from-the-front/) - Lt. Col Buckenmaier is an acute pain specialist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC).
- [How Are Bone Scans Used in the Diagnosis and Treatment of CRPS?](https://rsds.org/how-are-bone-scans-used-in-the-diagnosis-and-treatment-of-crps/) - Written by Angela Mailis-Gagnon MD, MSc, FRCPC (PhysMed) The three-phase bone scan has been used since the mid-1970s to diagnose CRPS. An intravenous(IV) injection of a particular radiolabelled substance that has a special tendency to concentrate in the bones is administered and a technician takes images of the body part in question, looking for the
- [Dental Care and Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/dental-care-and-chronic-pain/) - A comprehensive evaluation and consultation should be the first step in developing a treatment plan that suits the patient’s needs.
- [Support for People with CRPS](https://rsds.org/support-for-people-with-crps/) - Here's how to cope with chronic and acute physical and emotional pain.
- [Ask the Doctor: CRPS and Sleep Disorders](https://rsds.org/ask-the-doctor-crps-and-sleep-disorders/) - Treating the sleep disorder is critical, not only because people who sleep well feel better, have more energy, and are in a better mood, but sleep is critical to the body’s recuperation, repair and healing, especially with chronic disease.
- [There are Many Ways to Become an Active Member of the RSDSA Community](https://rsds.org/there-are-many-ways-to-become-an-active-member-of-the-rsdsa-community/) - It has been proven time and again that those who participate actively in the community function better and lead more fulfilling lives.
- [Finding a Lawyer For a Social Security Disability Case](https://rsds.org/finding-a-lawyer-for-a-social-security-disability-case/) - Although not everyone needs a lawyer for a Social Security disability case, lawyers who specialize in such cases can be helpful.
- [How To Lose Your Case In 12 Easy Steps](https://rsds.org/how-to-lose-your-case-in-12-easy-steps/) - When you pursue legal claims, whether they involve social security, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, or other types of personal injury claims, remember that these common mistakes could lose your case.
- [I Wouldn’t Change a Single Day That I’ve Lived](https://rsds.org/i-wouldnt-change-a-single-day-that-ive-lived/) - For many, including myself, diagnosis comes too late and aggressive treatment even later; that the disease process has spread not only throughout the extremities, but into the organs, causing autonomic dysfunction. This makes treatment options limited and remission even less likely. I’m one of the lucky ones who has known remission.
- ["PEOPLE Magazine" Focuses on a Tragic Injustice Experienced by a Family Living With CRPS](https://rsds.org/people-magazine-focuses-on-a-tragic-injustice-experienced-by-a-family-living-with-crps/) - RSDSA is working with other rare disease organizations to quantify how many rare disease families have been accused of medical child abuse.
- [Susie's Remission Story](https://rsds.org/susies-remission-story/) - I never gave up. I knew remission was possible and once I found out what I had I never stopped. I really want to help people that have CRPS.
- [You Want to Write About CRPS, But Don't Know What to Say](https://rsds.org/write-about-crps/) - Written by CRPS Warrior Samantha Barrett To write about CRPS is to expose a part of yourself that is vulnerable, but so important when it is shared. Members of our community have voiced an interest in writing about CRPS, but didn't know where to start. Here we go! Writer’s Block. Anxiety. Fear. Overwhelming thoughts. All
- [Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Practical Diagnostic and Treatment Guidelines, 5th Edition ](https://rsds.org/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-practical-diagnostic-and-treatment-guidelines-5th-edition/) - These guidelines have been sponsored by the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association and are written by expert practitioners in each discipline that is traditionally utilized in the treatment of CRPS.
- [Don’t Allow Someone Else to Minimize Your Journey](https://rsds.org/dont-allow-someone-else-to-minimize-your-journey/) - CRPS is a horrible disease. Most people, even with CRPS, don't understand CRPS fully. Don't allow someone else to minimize your journey because theirs is not as bad or the same as yours. Every warrior is a warrior.
- [Sending Condolences to the Family of R. Steven Shisler, Esq.](https://rsds.org/sending-condolences-to-the-family-of-r-steven-shisler-esq/) - It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of RSDSA board member, R. Steven Shisler, Esq. His unexpected departure has left us all in a state of profound sorrow and loss.
- [“Take Care of Maya” Netflix Documentary Commentary by CRPS Patient](https://rsds.org/take-care-of-maya-netflix-documentary-commentary-by-crps-patient/) - It angers me to my soul for Maya and her family and every family and patient with a complex disease that has had to go through something similar at the hands of power hungry and uneducated physicians, who, instead of fulfilling their Hippocratic Oath to “do no harm,” they in fact do the opposite.
- [Those Who Say It Cannot Be Done Should Get out of the Way of Those Who Are Doing It](https://rsds.org/get-out-of-the-way/) - Written by Wendy Kahn, MD for the RSDSA blog. I’ve always been very active, at least until one day in the fall of 2000, when I got a stick stuck in my rollerblade when I stood up to start my ride. I decided to have a controlled fall, but the impact on my sacrum turned
- [How DRG Differs from SCS - The Idea of Pleasant Stimuli in CRPS](https://rsds.org/drg-versus-scs-in-crps/) - Written by Dr. Chu for the RSDSA blog. As most patients suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome know, long-term data regarding standard treatment for this oftentimes debilitating condition has been mediocre at best. In fact, most of the usual treatment available, until recently, have been extremely limited. Nerve-specific medications can have intolerable side effects and
- [When It Gets Cold - Activities To Do With CRPS](https://rsds.org/cold-activities-crps/) - Written by Samantha Anderson for the RSDSA blog. Winter has arrived and is hitting many areas of this country hard. Temperatures are low, snow is coming, and many people with CRPS are trying to figure out how they can stay entertained without further aggravating their CRPS. For many people with CRPS, winter is not a
- [Tips For Newly Diagnosed With CRPS](https://rsds.org/tips-for-newly-diagnosed-with-crps/) - So you've been newly diagnosed with CRPS, what do you do?
- [Color The World Orange™ for CRPS/RSD Awareness](https://rsds.org/color-the-world-orange-for-crps-rsd-awareness/) - Join us to Color The World Orange™ for CRPS/RSD Awareness on Nov. 2 By The Color The World Orange™ Team Color The World Orange™ is almost here and we need your support! An annual event held the first Monday of November to spread awareness of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex
- [CRPS Awareness Day 13: A Step Towards the Future with DRG](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day13-drg-towards-future/) - By Guest Bloggers from Abbott Kam discusses how, after suffering groin pain for 15 years, Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) therapy provided her with chronic pain relief. Kam lives with CRPS. To view Kam's story, and to learn more, please visit the Abbott (formerly St. Jude Medical) site by clicking here. To learn more about DRG,
- [Tamara Gurin](https://rsds.org/tamara-gurin/) - My CRPS story began, like many CRPS stories, with misdiagnosis and despair over my rapidly worsening condition. Abnormal electromyography (EMG) test results led my doctor to conclude that I had carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), despite several other symptoms that were clearly inconsistent with CTS. I disagreed with doctors, and kept searching for a more accurate
- [RSDSA launches new, user-friendly website and blog to help the CRPS Community](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-launches-new-user-friendly-website-and-blog-to-help-the-crps-community/) - Welcome to RSDSA’s new website and blog. We’ve updated our presence on the web in order to better serve the CRPS/RSD community. The new website is very user friendly and easy to navigate. The idea is to help you quickly find the information, tools, and strategies you need to understand the diagnosis of and treatments
- [Learn More About the Camp for Courageous Kids](https://rsds.org/camp-for-courageous-kids/) - Do you remember sitting around the campfire and signing camp songs, roasting marshmallows and giggling with your new friends? It's your first day of summer camp and you are so excited to be there, to join in all the activities: archery, bowling, arts & crafts, horseback riding, etc. Fast forward 25 years to being a
- [The Cynthia Penaskovic Memorial Fund](https://rsds.org/the-cynthia-penaskovic-memorial-fund/) - Pain is a more terrible lord of mankind than even death himself. - Albert Schweitzer. Too often, life changes on a dime as my pastor frequently tells our congregation. Just ask any person suffering with CRPS when they developed CRPS/RSD and they can immediately relate the date and time. So it was with Cynthia Penaskovic,
- [CPRS is a Game of Wack-a-Mole](https://rsds.org/please-join-us-for-the-achilles-international-walk-for-hope-and-possibilities-on-june-28-2015-in-nycs-central-park/) - I want to introduce you to Diane Simonson, a first-time walker in this year’s walk. I am a former ballet dancer. In 2006, I began to have problems with my legs. I was tested for MS, Lou Gerhig's Disease, and everything else under the sun. As many of us have experienced - doctors told me
- [Multidisciplinary Treatment - Three Weeks in Utah](https://rsds.org/multidisciplinary-treatmentthree-weeks-in-utah/) - Written by Aubrey Haley for the RSDSA blog. In 2013, after living with full body CRPS for almost four years, I was afforded the opportunity to go to a treatment facility. My husband and I dug deep into the multidisciplinary treatment world, searching online and making phone calls for days. I knew I didn’t want
- [The Handicap's Appetite](https://rsds.org/the-handicaps-appetite/) - Written by Nancy Meagher for the RSDSA blog. Sometimes I still crave running and walking. It was a rare wedding celebration that I had not been moved by the music to dance. A few years ago our niece married a fine fellow from the south of France. As I had taken a few years of
- [Developing CRPS/RSD and Finding Hope](https://rsds.org/katies-story/) - Hi there! My name is Katie and I’m the blogger behind Upcycled Treasures and A Handcrafted Wedding. I was diagnosed with CRPS back in August 2012, and remember how difficult it was to find information and inspiring stories. In fact, I generally ended my search feeling more discouraged than when I started, and this only
- [Current and Future RSDSA Initiatives on Behalf of the RSDSA Community](https://rsds.org/current-and-future-rsdsa-initiatives-on-behalf-of-the-rsdsa-community/) - Written by Jim Broatch, RSDSA's Executive Vice President, Director This month, RSDSA is partnering with The Coalition Against Pediatric Pain and The US Pain Foundation to co-sponsor a free camp for children living in chronic pain: THE CENTER FOR COURAGEOUS KIDS in Scottsville, Kentucky. The camp is July 14-17, 2015 for children ages 7-17. The
- [CCK - We Feel So Good: A Reflection of Our Experience at the Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville, Kentucky](https://rsds.org/cck-we-feel-so-good-a-reflection-of-our-experience-at-the-center-for-courageous-kids-in-scottsville-kentucky/) - By Samantha Barrett, RSDSA's Special Events Coordinator I have a confession to make- I have never been to summer camp. Or, at least I hadn’t experienced camp until this past week when I went to the Center for Courageous Kids, where there was a week for pediatric pain. This was made possible by a collaboration
- [7 Reasons to Try Qi Gong for RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/7-reasons-to-try-qi-gong-for-rsdcrps/) - Written by Elizabeth Lane for the RSDSA blog. Ok maybe eight. I’m adding one. It’s FREE. I should say that usually you must pay to have a teacher show you the form (which is often the cost of one massage or acupuncture treatment). Then you have the tools to help yourself whenever you need it.
- [Join us to Color The World Orange™ for CRPS/RSD Awareness on Nov. 2](https://rsds.org/color-the-world-orange-for-crps/) - By The Color The World Orange™ Team Color The World Orange™ is almost here and we need your support! An annual event held the first Monday of November to spread awareness of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), on Nov. 2 Color The World Orange™ supporters will be wearing
- [How Camp Is Changing Lives For All Ages](https://rsds.org/camp-changing-lives-crps/) - By CRPS Warrior Candice Clifford, Volunteer from the Center for Courageous Kids Pediatric Pain Camp Session Experiences which leave an impression on your heart are the ones that stay with you forever… I ventured to Kentucky this past July to volunteer at the Center for Courageous Kids’ (CCK) inaugural Pediatric Pain Camp. I took a
- [I Feel Your Pain: The Power of Witness in Support Group](https://rsds.org/i-feel-your-pain-supportgroup/) - By Elisa Friedlander, from her blog. People have a deeply innate desire to be seen. I'm not talking about Facebook selfie type visibility, I mean really be seen. To have people, or even that one person, be tuned-in to your joy, struggle or other experience. To simply be present without trying to fix you. When
- [Fighting Back: The War Against Chronic Pain Sufferers](https://rsds.org/war-against-chronic-pain-sufferers/) - By Suzanne Stewart, author of "Tears of Truth" Think back to the Gun laws. Remember how some citizens were against taking guns away from the “people”? The reason being, that the “bad guys” will always have access to them and the “good guys” who are in need of protection; get killed in the meantime because
- [Twelve Things People with CRPS Want You To Know About Them During the Holiday Season](https://rsds.org/crps-and-the-holidays/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator Tis the season to be jolly! Or at least, that’s what I’ve heard. I love the holiday season. There are beautiful lights and decorations everywhere, there are people singing cheery songs, there are fun, mindless movie marathons on TV, there is delicious food- all of my favorite things wrapped
- [RSDSA Spotlight: When to Listen - A Day In The Life With CRPS](https://rsds.org/when-to-listen-crps/) - By Autumn Strand, Guest Blogger for RSDSA I, like many, had never heard of RSD/CRPS until it actually happened to me. I remember on the ride home googling it after the 3rd doctor I had been to said it is what I more than likely had. After many tests and even more treatments, I was
- [RSDSA Spotlight: Dear Body](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-spotlight-dear-body/) - Written by Melissa Lovitz, Guest Blogger for RSDSA Dear Body, I’m sorry for wishing you were different and calling you flawed. Living with chronic pain for twelve years taught me to question a lot and dislike much about you. In the chronic pain world we’re encouraged to constantly ask ourselves, “are you hurt or does
- [Crazy Sock Day for CRPS Awareness](https://rsds.org/crazy-sock-day/) - Interview by Sammie Barrett, RSDSA Special Events Coordinator. For the past six years, there has been a day in which people wore crazy socks to raise awareness for CRPS/RSD awareness. I heard about it in its second year and encouraged my friends and family to participate. We would post pictures of our crazy socks online
- [Crazy Sock Walk Raises Awareness for CRPS/RSD and More](https://rsds.org/crazy-sock-walk-success/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator For the past few years, I have participated in Crazy Sock Day. I am a lover of crazy socks and have quite an inventory of them, so every day is Crazy Sock Day for me, but on January 24 it is embraced by the invisible illness community. I had
- [So You Want to Dance - A New Way to Help CRPS](https://rsds.org/dance-away-crps/) - By Ryan Ferrell for the RSDSA website. Do you sometimes struggle to get Enrique out of your head? Yo quiero estar contigo, vivir contigo Bailar contigo, tener contigo So does Lucrecia Martinez, a physical therapist from the Silicon Valley. She wrote about wrestling with her chronic pain after an injury in last summer’s Community Update
- [RSDSA Spotlight: How CRPS Taught Me to Live In the Moment](https://rsds.org/crps-live-in-the-moment/) - By Anna Evenosky, Guest Blogger Rewind to that time that is so vague in my head that I can barely remember it. The time of my life when I was as free as a bird spreading its wings for the first time. The time of my life when I didn’t know CRPS existed. I can’t
- [Living Beyond Your Illness – Getting By With CRPS](https://rsds.org/living-beyond-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Suzanne Stewart. Originally Featured on her Tears of Truth blog. Hello Luvs, If you haven’t read any of my blog before, you won’t know that I always start out my blog with “Hello Luvs”. I had meant to write this long ago, but time gets away from all of us, so today
- [5 Do's and Don'ts When It Comes to People with CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-dos-donts-blog/) - By Guest Blogger Anna Evenosky So often we find ourselves in situations where people are trying their best to help us when in reality they very well may be hurting us. I can see how being a loved one of someone with CRPS can be challenging in more ways than one. You may find yourself
- [How My CRPS Pain Plot Twist Changed My Life](https://rsds.org/pain-plot-twist-audreyjohns/) - By Guest Blogger Audrey Johns I came across this meme on Facebook this morning and some emotions (both good and bad) came flooding back from yesterday. I have a disease called CRPS, a painful nerve disease that makes everyday a new struggle… heck I’m writing this to you from my bed, atop my 4 inch
- [Putting Out the Fire: A Brand New Approach to Treating RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/new-approach-rsd-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Dr. Katinka van der Merwe of the Spero Clinic Disclaimer: As a chiropractor, I may not claim to treat specific conditions or diseases. My only objective is to find interference in the Central Nervous System and to remove it, enabling the body to function at its optimum potential once again. I am
- [DRG Stimulation: The Breakthrough CRPS Treatment Has Finally Arrived in the United States](https://rsds.org/drg-crps-treatment/) - By Corey W. Hunter, MD for the RSDSA blog. Most patients with CRPS can attest to the fact that many of the existing treatments for it are extremely limited. Recently, Ketamine moved into the spotlight and gave physicians and patients, alike, a great deal of hope that we were getting closer to an answer. Sadly,
- [Trying with CRPS: What Do You Do?](https://rsds.org/trying-with-crps/) - By Autumn Strand for the RSDSA blog. 687 days ago I was robbed. Nothing of any monetary value was taken but something much more priceless was: my health. When you think about the value of things and what they mean to you, I believe that one's health is often overlooked. That is, until it isn't
- [My Journey Back to Health: Barbara Wall and RSD](https://rsds.org/journey-back-health-rsd/) - By Guest Blogger Barbara Wall, Power Over Pain of Arkansas This is a success story from someone with RSD/CRPS that saw Dr. Katinka van der Merwe. To read our article on Dr. Katinka van der Merwe's approach, click here. I was living life and enjoying all things around me. I did not feel that I
- [But I Still Look Fine - Living with Chronic Pain/CRPS](https://rsds.org/i-still-look-fine-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Tara White, RN I used to be a very active woman. I proudly served as a corpsman in the United States Navy for five years. I went to Nursing School and loved working in Obstetrics for twenty years. I climbed the difficult back of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park twice, and
- [The True Definition of a CRPS "Warrior"](https://rsds.org/true-definition-crps-warrior/) - By Anna Evenosky for the RSDSA blog. What is the true definition of a CRPS Warrior? We refer to ourselves all the time as “CRPS Warriors.” Although, what does it truly mean to be a warrior? Warrior is defined as, a brave or experienced soldier or fighter. So yes, we do fit under this definition
- [The Friend Who Didn't Tell Me About Their Chronic Illness](https://rsds.org/friend-chronic-illness/) - By Melissa Lovitz for the RSDSA blog. Dear Friend, I think you didn’t tell me about your chronic illness because I didn’t create a space for you to share with me more about your whole self. I wasn’t fully open and honest with you either – I’m sorry. Living with an invisible illness isn’t easy,
- [A Journey with CRPS/RSD Through the Gift of Music](https://rsds.org/crps-rsd-music/) - By Shannon L. for the RSDSA blog. Everyone has that one thing that gets them through their CRPS/RSD battle. For Shannon, it is music. Read her story below. “WOW” is all I can say as I sit back and reflect on the past 26.5 years in dealing with RSD (yes, I know the correct term
- [Team Caroline: A CRPS Story of Hope & Of Giving Back](https://rsds.org/team-caroline-crps/) - Written by Caroline Bert for the RSDSA blog. Caroline is a CRPS/RSD warrior that has been fighting for about 9 years. Now, Caroline is doing what she can to defy CRPS "limits" and to make a difference in the CRPS/RSD community through fundraisers. My name is Caroline Bert and I am 21 years old. In
- [CRPS Supporters: You and Me Against the World](https://rsds.org/crps-against-the-world/) - By Shannon for the RSDSA blog. Sometimes, it just takes one person to make a significant difference in the life of someone with CRPS/RSD. For Shannon, that person is her mother. See how Shannon's mom has helped her on her CRPS/RSD journey and how music tied them together even more. I remember growing up and
- [RSDSA's Final Achilles - Our Swan Song](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-walk-swan-song/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator This past weekend, RSDSA participated in their final Achilles Walk. We have been doing the Achilles Walk as an organization for over a decade. The event has run its course. We have decided we need to move on and change things up a bit for the CRPS/RSD community. For
- [You Have to Be There - Friendship and RSD](https://rsds.org/rsd-friendship-be-there/) - Written by Shannon Leidig for the RSDSA blog. "You have to be there, you have to Without you I drown in the deep Too far, too far from land The waters drag me down I reach for your hand" From the Musical Kristina I remember several years ago driving to my weekly massage appointment, listening
- [Manual Ligament Therapy (MLT) and RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/manual-ligament-therapy-mlt-rsd-crps/) - By Arik Warren Gohl LMT, MMLT for the RSDSA blog. Part 1- A Short History of Manual Ligament Therapy (MLT) In 2003 when I first began creating Manual Ligament Therapy (MLT), it was for this simple but important reason… Something different had to be done in the approach of helping those with pain. In those
- [Feeling Good (Again) at CCK's Pain Week](https://rsds.org/feeling-good-cck-pain-week-rsdsa/) - By Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. Last year, you may recall that I had my very first camp experience at the Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville, Kentucky. I liked it so much that I went back to represent RSDSA again this year! If you thought the inaugural year was amazing, wait until you
- [Matthew's Story - Hope and Perspective](https://rsds.org/matthew-crps-hope-perspective/) - By Matthew for the RSDSA blog. When a person is diagnosed with CRPS, often times it can be a confusing, complex time. Read what Matthew has gained from his diagnosis and what he hopes for your future. My name is Matthew. I'm a 19-year-old male from Melbourne, Australia. I was just recently diagnosed with stage
- [RSDSA's New Walk in Long Island](https://rsds.org/long-island-crps-new-walk/) - By Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. There is a new event coming to the RSDSA community. I have been particularly excited about it since I’ve been working with the three wonderful women from the walk committee for months now. Millie, Debbie, and Beth all live with CRPS.They hadn’t known each other very well until
- [Being Told to Keep My CRPS Quiet](https://rsds.org/keep-quiet-crps/) - By Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. Sometimes, people can be downright mean. When awareness is a crucial part of living with CRPS/RSD, what do you do when someone tells you that you should keep quiet about it? I’ve had CRPS for just about 10 years now. I was diagnosed as a pediatric patient. Being
- [Opioids: Friend or Foe?](https://rsds.org/opioids-friend-foe-crps/) - Written by Alaa A. Abd-Elsayed, MD (Dr. Al), Assistant Professor Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI It is nearly impossible to search for information on chronic pain conditions without stumbling across articles on the dangers of opioids. The FDA has recently published action plans to reduce opioid
- [A Measured Approach to Pain - Help People with Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/measured-approach-pain/) - Written by Guest Blogger Elisa Friedlander Written for the Huffington Post initially titled: A Measure Approach to Pain: Tools to Help Patients and Doctors "There’s one question I’ve been asked more than any other in my adult life. On a recent visit to the emergency room, I heard it once again. My pain was so
- [Comparing Pain - Why We Shouldn't Do That](https://rsds.org/comparing-pain/) - By Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. There are some things that we all do subconsciously. We judge books (and people) by their covers, we tell little white lies to spare people’s feelings, and we compare our pain to the pain of people around us. None of these actions are particularly good for us, especially
- [RSDSA's Longest Day of Golf - Meet Zach](https://rsds.org/longest-day-golf-zach/) - Interview Conducted by Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. Monday, September 26 is RSDSA's very first Longest Day of Golf. We wanted to find someone that would represent us in a great way. That's when Zach Baron came along. As this is being posted, Zach is trying to complete as many holes of golf as
- [Longest Day Golf Recap: How It's Helping RSDSA](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-longest-day-golf-recap/) - Wrtten by Samantha Barrett for the RSDSA blog. RSDSA's very first Longest Day of Golf took place this week. On Monday, September 26, RSDSA was lucky enough to take part in a golf marathon and Innis Arden Golf Club. We had Zach Baron, from Arccos, golfing on our behalf with the support of Jim Broatch.
- [Calmare Scrambler Therapy - When Traditional CRPS Treatments Don't Work](https://rsds.org/calmare-scrambler-therapy-crps/) - Written by Michael J. Cooney, D.C., Clinical Director of Calmare Therapy NJ USA. My 30-year career has revolved around treating pain. Since I was a kid, I was always trying to “fix” everybody. In high school, I played on the tennis team and was the self-designated team doctor. Decades later, Dr. Kelly and I grew
- [The Myth of a Cure for CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-cure-myth/) - WHAT DOES REMISSION LOOK LIKE? Written by Dr. Katinka van der Merwe for the RSDSA blog. Through the years of working with CRPS patients, I have often encountered what I refer to as “the myth of remission.” What does this mean, and why do I refer to it as a “myth?” When patients who suffer
- [Don't Judge a Book By Its Cover- What CRPS Taught Me](https://rsds.org/judge-book-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Shannon Leidig Greetings everyone! Happy Autumn! I so cannot believe we are almost to the end of October, which means the cold and snow of winter is just around the corner. I for one so am not NOT ready for that. I truly hope everyone is doing well. I have been meaning
- [Color the World Orange™ 2016 - CRPS Awareness](https://rsds.org/color-the-world-orange-2016/) - It all starts with an idea. That’s how our friends over at Color the World Orange™ became successful. They had an idea and acted upon it. Now, we are approaching the 3rd Annual Color the World Orange™ Day on November 7, 2016! Color the World Orange™ is a day of worldwide awareness for CRPS. Taking
- [A Teen In Pain Making a Difference - Keegan's CRPS Story](https://rsds.org/teen-pain-making-a-difference-keegan-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Keegan. Introduction by Samantha Barrett It's CRPS Awareness Month. RSDSA has several events happening all over the country this month. We will also be sharing some stories of hope and stories to raise awareness for CRPS/RSD. We were recently introduced to Keegan, a teenager who was recently diagnosed with CRPS. She's not
- [CRPS and Mental Health - Stress and Other Elements](https://rsds.org/crps-mental-health-stress/) - Written by Roderick Borrie, Ph.D. for the RSDSA blog. The last thing Penny expected was to be seeking help from a psychologist. She had always been a fiercely independent person who could take on most problems and solve them on her own. Penny was the one who took care of others, not the other way
- [Magic Wand – Experiences Living with CRPS](https://rsds.org/magic-wand-crps/) - Written by Guest Blogger Alessia Zen A story of living with CRPS (the struggles and triumphs), the hope for the future, and what the community truly needs. Ever the dreamer as an eleven year old little girl I wrote my life goals on a yellow post-it note, proudly signing it with juvenile cursive writing- in
- [Fear of Distance – RSD / CRPS and The Journey Away from Home](https://rsds.org/rsd-crps-fear-of-distance/) - Written by Guest Blogger Rachel Ehrenberg Rachel is a member of the RSD / CRPS community that had the opportunity to be a part of DCP, or the Disney College Program. She details what it is like to be so far away from home, for the first time, with CRPS. 997.2 miles. 997.2 minutes. 16
- [CRPS & GI - Frustrations From a Nurse's Perspective](https://rsds.org/crps-gi-nurse-frustration/) - Written by Guest Blogger Beth Seickel, RN, BSN CRPS and GI issues may have some correlation. Our own Nurse Beth details her perspective on this issue as both a person living with chronic pain and as a nurse. How can we prepare ourselves for hospitals? How can we educate the staff? As we educate the
- [From One Family to Another: A Pediatric CRPS Journey](https://rsds.org/crps-pediatric-family-journey/) - By Guest Bloggers Bobby and Lauren Gellert The Gellert's daughter, Zoe, has faced CRPS head on. She has been inspired to do some great things. See what Zoe and the Gellert family are doing and what they learned about pediatric CRPS. “Dad! You need to come home. The doctor said nothing is broken or torn,
- [Sing a Song - Getting Vocal About RSD This New Year](https://rsds.org/sing-song-rsd-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Shannon Leidig Everyone has a song to sing, with every song being our own stories. Shannon writes about her song, what it means to sing it, and why it is important to hear the songs of others, whether they have RSD / CRPS or not. Oh my, time surely does fly –
- [New Year, New RSDSA Goals - Helping the CRPS Community](https://rsds.org/new-year-new-rsdsa-goals/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator Welcome, 2017! So many of us were ready for a new year. With the new year comes expectations of resolutions, bettering oneself, and change overall. Not only is RSDSA no different than everyone else, but we also want to help people reach their goals/resolutions and then some! As you
- [Pain Reduction by Inducing Sensory - Motor Adaptation: CRPS PRISMA Trial](https://rsds.org/crps-prisma-trial-fyi/) - In research funded by the RSDSA, scientists at the University of Bath in England are investigating a new treatment for CRPS that targets perception of and attention to the affected limb and surrounding space. People with CRPS often report that the size and shape of their affected limb feels different to its true size or
- [The Club No One Wants - The CRPS Club](https://rsds.org/crps-club-no-one-wants/) - Written by Guest Blogger Jamynne Bowles Jamynne details her life, from being a young shy girl, to becoming a paramedic that suddenly joined a club she never asked to be in- The CRPS Club. What has life taught Jamynne? What is to come for The CRPS Club? Growing up in Northern Virginia, I remember being
- [The Importance of People - Friends with CRPS](https://rsds.org/importance-people-crps-friend/) - By Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator I started my CRPS journey when I was a teenager. Of course, then, it was known as RSD, but a lot has changed over the years. I remember being diagnosed with “Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy,” which instantly made me think that the doctor thought I was faking to get people’s
- [Music & Me - My Way of Coping with CRPS Pain](https://rsds.org/music-coping-crps-pain/) - Written by Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator We all have our ways of coping with CRPS pain. I've been using music to get me through everything in my life, especially CRPS. It's time for me to share with you. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been singing along to music, making up my
- [When Someone Offers You a Cure for CRPS](https://rsds.org/someone-offers-cure-crps/) - All people that have been diagnosed with CRPS/RSD want in this lifetime is a cure. That’s why so many of us focus on awareness, awareness events, fundraising, and even on keeping up with the latest research. There is nothing more we want than to be the “old” us- the ones that can hop, skip, and
- [Painting CRPS: A Nurse's Reflection of the Bible and Its Correlation to CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-painting-nurse-bible/) - Written by Alyssa Skillman for the RSDSA blog. Reshared with permission. Alyssa Skillman, RN, BSN had the wonderful opportunity to create a canvas and acrylic painting for the Boston Scientific Neuromodulation headquarters in California. They have a program that allows their patients with implanted devices to create artwork and send it in to be hung
- [How RSD Potentially Stole My Dreams - Cope With RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/rsd-crps-stole-dreams-cope/) - Written by Tatiana for the RSDSA blog. Being diagnosed with RSD/CRPS is challenging at any age. Being young and going through the challenges of school can make it hard to cope for children and teenagers. Tatiana writes about her experience being diagnosed with RSD/CRPS, her stolen dreams, and how she has ultimately learned how to
- [Chronic Pain and Family Responsiveness](https://rsds.org/chronic-pain-family-responsiveness/) - Written by Laura Lustig, PhD for the RSDSA blog. Originally Titled: "Chronic Pain And Family Responsiveness: Stories Of Courage In The Face Of Unimagined Change." There are many types of chronic pain experienced by people all over the world, many of which have been well recognized and have treatment regimens that are prescribed regularly by
- [You Know You're a Hospital Kid When... Life with CRPS](https://rsds.org/hospital-kid-life-crps/) - Written by Guest Blogger Melissa Lovitz This piece about being a hospital kid, especially one with CRPS/RSD, was originally posted on The Mighty. When you’re a spoonie you spend a lot of time in the hospital. About 10 years ago, I spent more than 10 cumulative weeks of my freshman year of high school either in the hospital or
- [The Impact of Mindfulness on RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/impact-mindfulness-rsd/) - By Guest Blogger Emily Salser Nunez How important is mindfulness and CRPS/RSD? According to Emily, it is crucial. Read Emily's story and then see how being mindful helped her. Eight months after fracturing my small toe in a simple misstep, I was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). I had never heard of this disorder
- [RSDSA Finds Great Success At Nashville CRPS Conference](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-success-nashville-crps/) - Written by Samantha Barrett, Special Events Coordinator As we regroup after a fabulous weekend in Nashville, Tennessee, we thought it would be nice to do a quick recap of the events that happened this past weekend. An amazing group of people with CRPS, caregivers, and supporters joined us to make this one of our most
- [SPPAN Tracking State Issues- How Can We Help CRPS/RSD?](https://rsds.org/sppan-state-issues-crps/) - This blog was originally titled "How SPPAN Went From Tracking A Few State Issues A Year, To Monitoring 1,900- And Changing the Rules in Several States." It was initially posted on Connectivity. At RSDSA's Nashville conference, pain-related legislation was a major hot topic. Some of the most frequently asked questions were about pain legislation and
- [Happy Disabiliday - A Letter from A Canadian CRPS Friend](https://rsds.org/happy-disabiliday-crps-warrior/) - This Disabiliday blog was originally featured on Pain Matter's website. It was submitted to us by Paula to share with our wonderful #TheTuesdayBurn community. We hope this helps inspire all those living with disabilities, especially CRPS/RSD. "You may remember Paula Orecklin, the inspirational Canadian CRPS patient whom I wrote about in yesterday’s blog post: Let’s Talk To
- [Managing RSD/CRPS As A Chronic Illness from a CRPS Warrior](https://rsds.org/managing-crps-warrior/) - Written by Guest Blogger Emily S. Nunez Emily has been living with CRPS/RSD and learning how to best manage it. Here, she includes her tips and tricks to control your CRPS/RSD as a chronic illness. She finds the following tips helpful for her own pain. The reality of living with RSD/CRPS is that it is
- [A Thorn In the Flesh - A Chronic Pain Journey](https://rsds.org/thorn-flesh-chronic-pain-journey/) - Written by Guest Blogger Gabe King This blog was originally featured on Gabe King's blog site Treasures on the Sand. This blog was submitted to us by Mr. King with full permission to share his chronic pain journey. For many of us with chronic pain, we can only remember suffering. It can be very hard
- [Never Let Pain Define You - CRPS Inspiration](https://rsds.org/never-let-pain-define-crps/) - Written by Guest Blogger Gabe King Guest blogger Gabe returns this week. After his blog entitled "A Thorn in the Flesh" was well-received, he returns to write about how CRPS pain can change you, but it doesn't need to be in a negative way. "Don't let pain define you, let it refine you." -Tim Fargo With
- [Understanding CRPS/RSD - As Taken from Fitness for Your Health](https://rsds.org/understanding-crps-pain/) - Written By Michael Sullivan, PT, MSPT for RSDSA blog. This post is about understanding CRPS was originally featured on "Fitness for Your Health." Learn about the pain and how they diagnosis it here. This week’s topic is one not many know too much about but it can be a very debilitating condition. Those who suffer
- [Stress: A Chronic Pain (CRPS/RSD) Warrior's Worst Enemy](https://rsds.org/stress-crps-enemy/) - Written by Gabe King for the RSDSA blog. Gabe is back this week to blog about stress, the impact it has on CRPS/RSD and chronic pain, and how to try to manage it. While stress is an inevitable part of life, there are certainly ways to manage it. "...Chaos calls but all you really need...Is
- [Knowing When To Push Yourself with CRPS](https://rsds.org/push-yourself-crps/) - Written by Samantha Barrett What is your limit? How far can you truly push yourself and your CRPS? How do you gauge each and every day when your ability changes by the hour? Samantha has experienced this and has some stories that may help. As someone who has been living with CRPS for over a
- [7 Things I Can Do When The Pain Is Too Much - CRPS Blog](https://rsds.org/when-crps-pain-too-much/) - Written by Guest Blogger Kelly Hodgkins This blog was originally posted on Moonglotexas. Click here to view the original post. This post, entitled "7 Things I Can Do When The Pain Is Too Much" was posted with permission and offers great insight into things that you can do, or try to do, when your CRPS/RSD
- [How CRPS Is Like a Wailing Alarm That Never Shuts Off](https://rsds.org/crps-alarm-never-shuts-off/) - Written by Guest Blogger Roberta Hierath This blog about CRPS being a wailing, screaming alarm that never shuts off was originally featured on The Mighty. We were given permission to post it as a part of #TheTuesdayBurn, especially since it explains the overwhelming feelings that CRPS can bring on. One thing I’ve learned in seven
- [My CRPS Experience at the Young Adult Weekend](https://rsds.org/crps-young-adult-weekend/) - Written by Guest Blogger Jess Henry-Cross Jess was a participant in our very first CRPS Young Adult Weekend this past June. She was more than happy to write a brief blog about her experience and how it changed things for her. Why are events like this so important? Read about what Jess experienced to learn
- [RSD and Me - A New Full Time Job](https://rsds.org/rsd-full-time-job/) - Written by Guest Blogger Sylvia Miller Being diagnosed with RSD CRPS can cause people to go through a range of emotions: denial, frustration, confusion, sadness, incompleteness, etc. Sylvia writes about what it was like trying to find an answer that wasn't RSD/CRPS. What happens after the RSD diagnosis? How can you impact your life regardless
- ["A Happy Seven" Short Film Review - Relating Back to CRPS](https://rsds.org/a-happy-seven-review-crps/) - Written by Guest Blogger Juli Wordgirl Chronic Pain Blogger, Juli Wordgirl, offers her insight into the short film entitled "A Happy Seven." How does she think this relates back to the CRPS/RSD community? Life with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is very difficult for me. Over the past nine-years I’ve made some difficult decisions, and
- [RSD Is An Angry Ocean - Why It's Okay to Be Angry](https://rsds.org/rsd-angry-ocean/) - Written by Guest Blogger Sara We love to post uplifting stories about people living with CRPS/RSD. But, what about the moments where it is nearly impossible to be positive? Do we let that go unnoticed, or should we reach a point of acceptance that RSD comes with a range of emotions. Sara covers her feelings
- [CRPS From An Outside Perspective - Interview With a Husband](https://rsds.org/crps-outside-perspective-interview/) - By Samantha Anderson, Special Events Coordinator After several requests for my husband and I to give a bit of our story and let everyone know how things work with us, I decided to interview him to find out what he thinks about CRPS/RSD as a person that lives with it daily without physically experiencing it.
- [Palliative Care for the Person with Complex Pain Generating Syndromes](https://rsds.org/palliative-care-complex-pain-syndromes/) - Written by Dr. Terri A. Lewis What is palliative care and what does it mean for people with complex pain syndromes? Dr. Lewis sheds light on this topic for people that are curious about it and would like to know more. What is Palliative Care? Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care for people with serious illness.
- [CRPS Retreats and Gatherings - The Positive Impact of the YA Retreat](https://rsds.org/crps-retreat-gatherings-positive-impact/) - Written by Guest Blogger Melissa Lanty RSDSA is focusing on how we can better serve the community, especially with November (CRPS Awareness Month) quickly approaching. One of our young adults contributed this blog shortly after our first young adult weekend, which was a great success. Read what Melissa has to say about how this weekend
- [A New Month, An Almost New Season - What's Coming in CRPS/RSD](https://rsds.org/fall-crps-rsd-events/) - I can’t believe it is September already! Before we know it, the leaves will start falling, pumpkins will start glowing, and it will be sweater weather (at least here in New England). Not only do all of these amazing things happen, but this is when our events really start to kick up. Woohoo! We’re starting
- [Slowing Down with CRPS - How To Say No While Staying Happy](https://rsds.org/slowing-crps-say-no-staying-happy/) - Written by Samantha Anderson I've lived with CRPS for 11 out of my 24 years on this planet. I've always been a type-A personality that hates turning down a job or a favor for anyone. This has gotten me into a pickle. Why is slowing down important? Based on personal experience, and observation of the
- [How CRPS is Like Pennywise and "IT" - What We Can Learn](https://rsds.org/crps-like-pennywise-it/) - Written by Samantha Anderson To compare CRPS to one of the biggest horror re-makes of this year, "IT," seems like a bold move. But, let's say CRPS is Pennywise. How can we find similarities? When the remake of Stephen King’s “IT” came out, I wanted absolutely nothing to do with it. Horror movies are not
- [There's a Monster in the House - CRPS Even Affects A Caregiver](https://rsds.org/monster-house-crps-caregiver/) - Written by Guest Blogger Stephanie Umlor for the RSDSA blog. While we live with CRPS daily and can let it take over our thoughts, we often don't realize how our loved ones are affected. This is a reminder that every caregiver and loved one can be affected by this CRPS "monster" as well. A reality
- [The Top 10 Shoe Brands for CRPS Warriors](https://rsds.org/top-10-shoe-brands-crps-2/) - Written by Guest Blogger Ashley Epping I developed CRPS at 12 years old in my left wrist. After being diagnosed, I spent the next six years dancing competitively, staying at the Pediatric Cleveland Clinic, creating art, traveling abroad and applying to colleges. I never once thought about my shoe choice because I didn’t need to.
- [A Nurse's Fight Back Against CRPS - Impacting Other Nurses](https://rsds.org/nurse-fight-back-crps/) - Written by Nurse Beth Seickel for the RSDSA Blog When RSDSA was asked to be a part of ASPMN-LI's 16th Annual Pain Conference, we were happy to join. Nurse Beth, a CRPS warrior, was one of the first people we wanted by our side during this. She was kind enough to write about her experience
- [RSDSA: The People and Programs Behind the Website](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-people-programs-behind-website/) - By Jim Broatch, MSW, Executive Vice President, Director With CRPS/RSD Awareness Month approaching, we wanted to feature a message from our Executive Vice President and Director, Jim Broatch. So many people rely on RSDSA for resources. Here at RSDSA, we want to be able to best help you and best support you. We want to
- [A Halloween Tale for CRPS With a Fun Message](https://rsds.org/halloween-tale-crps/) - Written by Samantha Anderson ‘Twas the day of Halloween, and all through RSDSA, Anticipation was occurring, for another important day. While others prepared costumes of Wonder Woman and Zeus, Samantha was writing a Halloween blog, although for another use. Tonight, she would dress as a unicorn in full, To pass the trick or treaters candy
- [CRPS Awareness Day 1: A Glimpse Into My Life](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day1-glimpse-life/) - Written by Tracy Coval for the RSDSA blog. Tracy Coval gives RSDSA a look into her life with CRPS and dystonia. See what she has done through her journey. Note this was initially posted on her blog, which can be found at this link (click here). Some of the images may be too graphic for
- [CRPS Awareness Day 2: Burning Nights CRPS Support in the UK](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day2-burning-nights-support-uk/) - Written by Guest Blogger Victoria Abbott-Fleming Our friend, Victoria, runs a support network for people with CRPS in the United Kingdom (UK). We asked her to write up a little bit of what Burning Nights does. Here is what she wrote. Thank you, Victoria! Burning Nights CRPS Support finally began and went live in September
- [CRPS Awareness Day 3: The Media Coverage of Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day3-media-chronic-pain-rsd/) - Written by Guest Blogger Melissa Lovitz. Melissa initially featured this post on her blog. The Washington Post recently published an article about CRPS titled “The Strange Pain that can Overcome Kids, Especially High-achieving Teenage Girls.” The article was shared with me by someone who has never experienced a chronic, physical illness and believes that you
- [CRPS Awareness Day 5: My CRPS Story](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day5-my-crps-story/) - Written by Guest Blogger Suzanne Stewart Suzanne is an active advocate for all things chronic pain. She is the voice behind social media sites like RASEforCRPS and is an active ambassador for the US Pain Foundation. Suzanne also helps RSDSA with our awareness and fundraising efforts. Read her story below. My name is Suzanne and
- [CRPS Awareness Day 8: The Young Chronicle with Vicky](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day8-young-chronicle-vicky/) - Written by Ashley Epping The Young Chronicle is a new blog series started by Ashley to get insight on CRPS/RSD from young adults. Each blog will offer insight to the unique challenges that young adults with chronic pain face and their ways of coping, healing, and continuing on. Vicky is a 25 year-old from Illinois
- [CRPS Awareness Day 9: My CRPS and DRG Story](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day9-crps-drg-story/) - Writen by Marcia Nolting for the RSDSA blog. Treatments for CRPS or RSD vary per person. We would like to note that you should always consult with your medical team about treatment options. For Marcia, DRG was the right answer. See what she was able to do due to DRG. My name is Marcia and
- [CRPS Awareness Day 10: CRPS Teacher Turned Student](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day10-teacher-student/) - By Guest Blogger Lara Santoro, Ph.D. Lana Edwards Santoro, Ph.D., is a teacher, educational consultant, writer, and amateur photographer. She also lives with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Embracing CRPS turned this teacher back into a student. Lana’s interest in education began when she was in elementary school. She loved reading and never passed an
- [CRPS Awareness Day 12- My Burning Nights Complex Pain Story](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day12-burning-nights-complex-pain/) - By Guest Blogger Victoria Abbott-Fleming I grew up in the North West, UK as an only child and went through early life enjoying school, sports and music. At primary school I made Head Girl and became a Head of House and School Prefect at Secondary School. My childhood was a very happy one! I became
- [CRPS Awareness Day 13: Becoming an RSD Warrior](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day13-becoming-rsd-warrior/) - By Guest Blogger Amy Marie Suss There are moments in which we realize our lives are changing, forever. Amy Marie Suss realized hers was changing a decade ago. Little did she know, this day would lead to RSD/CRPS and to becoming a warrior against pain. April 30, 2007. That was the day my entire world
- [CRPS Awareness Day 14: The Anatomy of Hope](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day14-anatomy-hope/) - Written by Katinka van der Merwe Dr. Katinka is back to write about the anatomy of hope. What does she mean by this? How can a chiropractor impact lives of people living with CRPS/RSD? After finding her purpose, Dr. Katinka did just that. From neuromuscular reeducation to microcurrents, read all about it here. Six years
- [CRPS Awareness Day 16: What We Lose When We Undertreat Pain](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day16-what-we-lose-undertreat-pain/) - Kate was a civil rights attorney for the Justice Department when pain consumed her life. Using opioids to function, she moved on to become a federal prosecutor. Based on her experience, she recorded this TED Talk to show how the opioid "crisis" is harming the people in pain that need it and how it harms
- [CRPS Awareness Day 17: Attending Events In Pain](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day17-attending-events-pain/) - By Samantha Anderson When was the last time you went to an event? A wedding, a reunion, a birthday party, a holiday- they all count. It can be incredibly stressful to prepare for these events, especially when you cannot predict how your CRPS pain is going to be. But, every day, we continue to push
- [CRPS Awareness Day 20: A Step Towards the Future](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day20-step-towards-future/) - The above video shows Kam discuss how, after suffering groin pain for 15 years, Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) therapy provided her chronic pain relief. View Kam's Chronic Pain Story and request more information to see if Dorsal Root Ganglion Therapy is right for you. Click here for more information.
- [CRPS Awareness Day 21: Three Different Perspectives About CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day21-different-perspectives/) - By RSDSA Board Member, Bob Lane RSDSA welcomes board member Bob Lane to TheTuesdayBurn. Mr. Lane has been a CRPS caregiver, a support group facilitator, a foundation leader, and now an RSDSA Board Member. See CRPS through his eyes in all different perspectives. I would have never thought that I would be writing a blog
- [CRPS Awareness Day 22: 5 Things I Do To Kick RSD's Butt](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day22-5-things-kick-rsd-butt/) - By Guest Blogger Melissa Lovitz While many people across the United States are preparing for Thanksgiving, we thought it would be fun to feature this listicle about what you can do every day to kick CRPS/RSD's butt. This author wrote a great list for us to feature. Here's what she does. My RSD reminds me
- [CRPS Awareness Day 23: Why We Are Thankful Despite CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day23-thankful/) - Compiled by Samantha Anderson for the RSDSA blog. Thanksgiving can be a particularly difficult time for people living with CRPS. The holidays in general are stressful. Whether you are hosting dinner at your house or have to travel to a relative’s house, it can be stressful. However, Thanksgiving is a wonderful part of the year,
- [CRPS Awareness Day 24: Sharing My Skills and Working](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day24-sharing-skills-working/) - By Guest Blogger Kelly Hodgkins Some people with CRPS have a difficult time discovering what they can do while living in pain. Guest blogger Kelly found a way to share her skill set in a way that is convenient for her and that works with their pain. Those who can't do, teach! See how she
- [CRPS Awareness Day 25: When They Laugh](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day25-laugh-pain/) - By Guest Blogger Sarah Bigham This blog was originally featured on The Idea Crucible (click here) and featured this thank you: "Thanks to Lori Leitzel Rice for inviting me to contribute my patient-focused perspective on practitioner communication. Lori is my CranioSacral massage therapist, and a dear friend who has seen me through the worst times
- [CRPS Awareness Day 26: The Importance of a Walk](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day26-importance-walk/) - By Guest Blogger Beth Seickel Many of us attend or get involved with a walk to support a family member or friend challenged by a specific diagnosis or condition hoping the fundraiser will help to create change. So, how can a RSDSA event be any different? Who participates? What can one expect? Where is it
- [CRPS Awareness Day 27: CRPS, Function, and Rehabilitation](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day27-crps-function-rehabilitation/) - Written by Michael Sullivan PT, MSPT for the RSDSA blog. How important is movement to our health and wellbeing? A dark lesson starting in medieval times and running into the mid-1800s is provided by the numerous inquisitions, the most famous being the Spanish Inquisition. For over 700 years torture was used to induce people to
- [CRPS Awareness Day 28: Neuromodulation and DRG](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day28-neuromodulation-drg/) - By Dr. Timothy Deer CRPS/RSD is a debilitating painful condition affecting thousands of patients. Chronic pain as a result of CRPS not only impacts the patient, but the patient’s family and loved ones as well. Many are forced to give up work or other meaningful life and family activities due to the ongoing persistent pain.
- [CRPS Awareness Day 29: Restaurateur Gets CRPS](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day29-restaurateur-gets-crps/) - By Anonymous for the RSDSA blog My life truly changed when I was 23 years old. As I look back, I realize that I was in my golden years. I just completed my bachelors in Food Service Management from Johnson and Wales University. Even at a young age, I was interested in food so I
- [CRPS Awareness Day 30: Awareness Must Become Our 365 Day Activity](https://rsds.org/crps-awareness-day30-awareness-must-become-365-day-activity/) - By Jim Broatch, MSW, Executive Vice President, Director RSDSA Executive Vice President and Director of RSDSA, Jim Broatch, details why it is crucial that we continue our CRPS awareness efforts beyond November. Awareness is a 365-day effort that we must push forward with in order to make positive change in the world of chronic pain.
- [The Young Chronicle: Ophelia](https://rsds.org/young-chronicle-ophelia/) - Written by Ashley Epping for the RSDSA blog. Ophelia is a 19-year-old who developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome at only nine years old, is from Ontario Canada and uses the pronouns they/them/their. They were originally told by a doctor that they were only experiencing growing pains. They reflected on the experience saying “I always knew
- [15 Tips For Healthcare Providers Treating CRPS/RSD](https://rsds.org/15-tips-healthcare-providers-treating-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Melissa Wardlaw As a patient with CRPS/RSD, I am lucky to have a pain-management physician I have been partnered with since 2004 whom I trust, who trusts me and who understands my complex medical issues. As I have visited many physicians and other specialists on my medical journey before and after partnering
- [Using Somatosensory Rehabilitation to Treat Allodynia](https://rsds.org/somatosensory-rehabilitation-allodynia/) - Written by Tara Packham, Ph.D., OTReg (Ont) for the RSDA blog. Postdoctoral fellow, Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Reearch and Care. McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada Allodynia is formally defined as a painful response to a stimulus that does not normally produce pain. This includes painful feelings in response to 1) light touch such
- [A New Year With CRPS, A New Start](https://rsds.org/new-year-crps-resolution/) - By Samantha Anderson for the RSDSA blog. 2018 is coming up quickly. With a new year, everyone is thinking of restarting and having a better year. For those of us with CRPS, we're looking for hope while also looking to improve our lives through a new years resolution. Let's talk about the changes we can
- [Top 5 Clothing Brands for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome](https://rsds.org/top-clothing-brands-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/) - Written by Samantha Anderson Fashion and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome don't always walk hand in hand. Trying to find clothing that is comfortable can be a task. This article features primarily women's clothing brands (although some fit both), but stay tuned for a men's clothing article! Finding comfortable clothing can be a hassle for every
- [Combating a CRPS Winter With Music](https://rsds.org/combating-crps-winter-music/) - Written by Samantha Anderson for the RSDSA blog. Getting through cold, dark winters can be difficult for anyone. With CRPS, we understand that there can be more complications. As someone with CRPS, I've fought through some of the darkness of winter with music. Get on board with me and see what my recommendations are to
- [Quotes and Mantras To Help CRPS Warriors](https://rsds.org/crps-mantras-quotes/) - Written by Samantha Anderson for the RSDSA blog Everyone has bad days. They are inevitable. Bad days are what make good days feel amazing. It can feel incredibly difficult to get through some bad days, particularly if pain is high on those days. We all need something to pull us through and remind us that
- [Living with RSD- Never Give Up On Hope](https://rsds.org/living-rsd-never-give-hope/) - By Guest Blogger Brenda Refior Brenda discusses her life before being diagnosed with RSD and all of the things she endured after a traumatic incident. Through all of this, Brenda is able to find hope and encourages readers to do the same. Find out how below. Before I had RSD, I was a strong and
- [Embracing Valentine's Day 2018](https://rsds.org/embracing-valentines-day-2018/) - By Samantha Anderson Living with CRPS makes holidays stressful. Valentine's Day is a whole other topic. Sometimes, we are our own Valentine, while other times we may not feel up to going along with our Valentine's plans. How can we adapt to make the most of this day about love? Valentine’s Day can be a
- [Stages of Grief With CRPS](https://rsds.org/stages-grief-crps/) - By Anonymous Being diagnosed with CRPS at a young age comes with its own complications. There are so many things to try, so many people with different opinions, and so many different emotions that can be felt. This author wrote about their experience with CRPS, grief, and learning to live with pain. When I was
- [Seeing Is Not Always Believing: Perception and Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/seeing-not-always-believing-perception-chronic-pain/) - By Guest Blogger Gabe King This blog was originally titled "Seeing Is Not Always Believing: How Chronic Pain Warriors Allow Others' Perception To Shape Them." As a chronic pain warrior, Gabe knows first hand how other people's views of us can impact how we think about ourselves. What advice does he have to help us
- [Hope Has Found You](https://rsds.org/hope-has-found-you/) - By Guest Blogger Terri Arnett Suddenly living life with chronic pain syndromes, such as CRPS/RSD, can be a shock to the system. There are a number of trials and tribulations that people living with CRPS/RSD go through. Terri Arnett writes about her experience and how she now feels hopeful and encouraged. I know why people
- [Being A Wounded Healer With CRPS](https://rsds.org/wounded-healer-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Gabe King "You come out of suffering sometimes scarred. But you come out, anyway, a stronger person...you become, yourself, a wounded healer." -Bobby Schuller As a chronic pain warrior, have you ever thought of yourself as a healer? Not a physical healer, by no means! If that were the case, we would
- [Not An Inspirational Blog About CRPS](https://rsds.org/not-inspirational-blog-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Melissa Lanty Sometimes, all of the positive, wishful thinking blogs can be too much, especially for members of the community that are feeling frustrated. Melissa is here to let you know that you are allowed to be frustrated and aggravated and that everything is not always sunshine and rainbows in the world
- [5 Things People With Chronic Pain Need You To Hear](https://rsds.org/5-things-chronic-pain-need-hear/) - Written by Rachel Ehrenberg for the RSDSA blog. Often times, we discuss what we want to hear from our loved ones about chronic pain. It is not often we get to tell them the things we need them to know and to hear. Rachel took the big step to make this list happen. There are
- [How CRPS Is A Family Disease](https://rsds.org/crps-family-disease/) - By Samantha Anderson Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in our pain and our diagnosis that we do not realize that CRPS goes beyond us. Our families can be changed because of a CRPS diagnosis. While we have to focus on working on our own pain, it can be important to recognize some of the
- [Finding Your Flashlight With CRPS](https://rsds.org/finding-flashlight-crps/) - By Guest Blogger Morgan Trevithick Morgan experienced a CRPS diagnosis after doing something she loved. She was then surrounded by the darkness that CRPS can bring. What did it take for her to come out of the darkness? A flashlight. See what she means below. Most people have passions, and even if they don’t admit
- [My Top 5 Strategies For Dealing With A CRPS Flare](https://rsds.org/top-5-strategies-dealing-crps-flare/) - Written by Melissa Wardlaw for the RSDSA blog As a person living with CRPS, Melissa has had to manage a number of full body flares and pain for almost two decades. Because of this, Melissa was able to compile a list of tips that work for her to deal with pain flares. While these may
- [A Conversation With Our Newest CRPS Blogger](https://rsds.org/conversation-crps-blogger/) - By Lorna Fortner Lorna is a member of the CRPS. As a new blogger, she wanted to introduce herself and tell her story before she continues on her blogging journey. We bet that many of you will be able to relate to Lorna. Make sure to give her a warm welcome. Hi, y’all, I’m Lorna
- [Safety Month and RSDSA - What Does It Mean](https://rsds.org/safety-month-support-group/) - By Jenny Picciotto for the RSDSA blog. Support groups are incredibly important to the CRPS community. RSDSA works to help make sure that these support groups are equipped with the tools that they may need. Jenny, a support group leader, writes about the upcoming Safety Month and what being a Support Group Facilitator has done
- [When Is Physical Pain Emotional Pain?](https://rsds.org/physical-pain-emotional-pain/) - By Guest Blogger Deborah R. Brandt, PT, DPT, CMA Twice, I have had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic [complex] regional pain syndrome (CRPS) occur simultaneously. In case other people may have PTSD associated with their CRPS, here are some insights and information I have gained from my healing process I would like to share
- [Belated Mother's Day- Honor Thy Caregiver](https://rsds.org/honor-thy-caregiver/) - By Guest Blogger Melissa Wardlaw As a patient who has been living with a multitude of painful chronic illnesses for over 15 years now, I have had to reluctantly rely on caregivers. Being a highly independent and self-sufficient person my entire life (even living in my own apartment at 16), this has been a very
- [CRPS - Find The Fruit Or Rot Inside](https://rsds.org/crps-find-fruit-rot-inside/) - by Gracie Bagosy-Young This blog was originally posted on The National Pain Report. Click here to see it there. Gracie discusses how CRPS helped her learn a lesson about herself. This involved finding the fruits of life every day. I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome many years ago. Sometimes I forget how long
- [Life With CRPS In Europe With The RSDSA Board](https://rsds.org/crps-in-europe/) - By RSDSA Board Member, Ilona Thomassen What is it like for people living with CRPS in Europe? Ilona, a member of the RSDSA Board and of the Dutch Patient Society, addresses some of the similarities and differences between CRPS in America and in Europe. While some approaches are similar, some are quite different. What surprises
- [From Professional Patient To Young Adult Photographer](https://rsds.org/professional-patient-photographer/) - By Guest Blogger Caroline Bert We were lucky enough to meet Caroline at our Achilles Walk and then at our Long Island walk. As a young adult with CRPS/RSD, Caroline did not want to just be the "sick" girl, she wanted to be known for her dreams and talent. See how she did that here.
- [Experimenting With Treatments/Modalities](https://rsds.org/experimenting-treatments-modalities/) - By Guest Blogger Lorna Fortner This blog comes at the perfect time, as RSDSA has been asking the community for different treatments or things that they do to minimize their pain or reach remission. Lorna took the time to write about the various methods of treatments that she has tried and why the "opioid crisis"
- [When Treatment Offers Hope For Normalcy](https://rsds.org/treatment-hope-normalcy/) - By Guest Blogger Jamynne Bowles Jamynne discusses a potential co-morbid condition of CRPS- Dysautonomia. How does this impact her life? How did the treatment of CRPS impact this condition? What does she do to make the most of each good moment? Find out what happens when treatment provides hope for a better day, but makes
- [Walking the Fire: My Journey to Pain Management Living With CRPS](https://rsds.org/my-journey-living-with-crps/) - By Roy N Greenwood I was diagnosed with CRPS in my right leg in late 1996, before the internet had really become a thing and most research was still done at the local public library. A simple slip and fall while working on a cold and rainy night back in December of 1995 changed my
- [Minimizing Pain](https://rsds.org/minimizing-pain/) - By James W. Broatch. MSW, RSDSA Executive Vice President, Director Earlier this summer, RSDSA conducted a short survey of the RSDSA community asking individuals with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) what practices, medications, i.e. what is helping you to minimize your CRPS. In other words, as John Lennon said, “what is getting you thru the
- [Jennifer's Legacy](https://rsds.org/jennifers-legacy/) - Written by James W. Broatch, RSDSA’s Executive Vice President, Director I want to introduce you to a special book which was recently published as a testimony to Jennifer Abramson’s brief but wonderful and impactful life. Jennifer lived only 31 years. However, her wisdom and can-do spirit live on in JEN’S Gift, a book which is
- [Tracey’s Story](https://rsds.org/traceys-story/) - By Tracey Morales for the RSDSA blog. Hi, my name is Tracey, I'm 48-years-old, married and have two daughters. I've had RSD for 21 years. My RSD story starts in Jan 1998. A toy V-Tech computer fell on my left foot, fracturing two toes and crushing the MT joints (toe knuckles). After two weeks, I
- [Our Groundbreaking Non-invasive Approach to CRPS](https://rsds.org/groundbreaking-non-invasive-approach-crps/) - by Dr. Katinka van der Merwe of The Spero Clinic and author of “Putting Out the Fire: New Hope for RSD/CRPS.” I set out on a journey eight years ago that made treating the nervous systems of those suffering from CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) not only a part of my life as a chiropractic
- [Traversing the Minefields](https://rsds.org/traversing-the-minefields/) - By Linda Young Like a purveyor of fine wine or food, I am a purveyor of a neurological disorder that has impeded my body but not sacrificed my mind or soul for the past eight years. CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) or RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) as it is commonly referred to is worthy of
- [Fifth Annual Color The World Orange for CRPS/RSD Awareness is Nov. 5](https://rsds.org/fifth-annual-color-world-orange-crps-rsd-awareness-nov-5/) - By The Color The World Orange™ Team for the RSDSA blog. Get your orange ready! The fifth-annual Color The World Orange™ for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Awareness is November 5. Buildings, bridges and landmarks around the world will be lit orange on Nov. 5 including Niagara Falls, the Helmsley Building in New York,
- [Another Rider for RSDSA](https://rsds.org/another-rider-rsdsa/) - By James W. Broatch, RSDSA Executive Vice President, Director In October, a friend of RSDSA, Tatum Bunnett will be embarking on a bike ride across our country to raise CRPS awareness and funds for RSDSA. You can donate on her FirstGiving page to help her. This is what Tatum plans: "I am a recent high
- [Sheryl’s HOPE](https://rsds.org/sheryls-hope/) - Written by Sheryl Rehs for the RSDSA blog. This is a story about adversity and fear. It’s a story about emotional and physical pain, but ultimately, it’s a story about acceptance and hope. Hi! My name is Sheryl and I’m 56 years old. I’ve lived in Tucson Arizona since 2005. I moved to Tucson leaving
- [Swimming Against the Current](https://rsds.org/swimming-against-the-current/) - By Jenny Picciotto for the RSDSA blog. November is National Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Awareness Month, and November 17, 2018 holds special significance for Konnie Parke. On the 7th anniversary of the surgery that led to her CRPS, she intends to celebrate in an unusual way - she will televise a swim-a-thon in her garage
- [Former State Representative Develops Little-Known Syndrome](https://rsds.org/former-state-representative-develops-little-known-syndrome/) - By Honorable Jennifer R. Lesogor-Coffey Manchester, NH, October 2018 - Former New Hampshire State Representative and Civil rights Advocate has been diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Type 2. It is a disease that affects only 200,000 people in the United States according to National Health Statistics and the National RSDSA organization based in
- [November’s CRPS Awareness Month is Fast Approaching](https://rsds.org/novembers-crps-awareness-month-fast-approaching/) - Written by James W. Broatch, RSDSA’s Executive Vice President, Director I want to reissue my invitation to the RSDSA community to participate in November’s CRPS Awareness Month. “As November’s CRPS Awareness month nears, I would like to offer our community members an opportunity to share their stories, their successes, hopes, and what ifs. We would
- [RSDSA launches a $10,000 matching challenge for CRPS research ](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-launches-10000-matching-challenge-crps-research/) - By James W. Broatch, MSW, RSDSA Executive Vice President, Director In August, I blogged about Jen’s Gift, a posthumously published collection of Jennifer Abramson’s optimistic and spirit-filled postings from her Instagram profile. Despite suffering with Lyme disease, toxic mold syndrome, and CRPS which rendered her housebound, Jen posted beautiful unique photos accompanied by insightful quotes, clever
- [25 Years Later](https://rsds.org/25-years-later/) - Written by Keven Mosley-Koehler for the RSDSA blog. To my friends and fellow-survivors, Last week, I was playing a tennis match and my feet somehow got tangled up as I was running down a well-placed ball and the next thing I knew as I lunged for it I went down hard onto my right hip
- [Thankful](https://rsds.org/thankful/) - By Shannon Schildt-Leidig for the RSDSA blog. Oh my gosh I cannot believe we are coming up to the Holiday season and the end of another year! This is a time in which I stop and reflect on all that has happened in the past year and to say THANKS to those special people in
- [Support House Resolution 1154 Affirming the Importance of the Orphan Drug Act](https://rsds.org/rsdsa-asking-crps-community-support-house-resolution-1154-affirming-importance-orphan-drug-act/) - By James W. Broatch, MSW, RSDSA Executive Vice President, Director and Marin Blake Cartelli, RSDSA Advocacy Committee In 1983, The National Organization of Rare Disorders (NORD), working with Representative Henry Waxman was instrumental in advocating for the passage of the Orphan Drug Act (ODA) which brought new hope to the rare disease community by encouraging
- [Shannon’s Story](https://rsds.org/shannons-story/) - By Traci Patterson - Founder and Executive Director, Advanced Pathways Shannon suffered a knee injury at work that lead to her diagnosis of CRPS. Much like the majority of CRPS patients she went undiagnosed for three years. Heading into her fourth year of excruciating pain, temperature changes, swelling and frustration – she finally received the
- [Holiday Blues](https://rsds.org/holiday-blues/) - Jenny Picciotto is a writer and CRPS patient who enjoys reading and playing the piano. She was a yoga instructor and massage therapist before CRPS changed her trajectory. She currently lives in Hawaii, where she facilitates the Oahu CRPS Support Group. © Jennifer Picciotto 11-30-18. First published in National Pain Report. The holidays are a
- [My Disability Is Everybody's Problem](https://rsds.org/disability-everybodys-problem/) - By Elisa Friedlander Repost of her Blog on 12/08/18 Talk about the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has surfaced since the recent death of President Bush who, despite opposition from his staff, signed the ADA into legislation. The civil rights law, prohibiting discrimination against persons with disabilities, moved forward because of the disability advocates who marched, sat,
- [From Therapist to Client: How My Healing Experiences with CRPS Can Help Others](https://rsds.org/therapist-client-healing-experiences-crps-can-help-others/) - Written by Julie Robbins, OTR/L for the RSDSA blog. I am a passionate, pediatric occupational therapist. I am also an adoring mother of a 7 year old, a loving wife, a minimalist, a book clubber, a political activist, an animated Zumba-er, a Korean language student, a loyal friend and family member, a volunteer, and therefore,
- [Roslyn Hamiton's CRPS Story](https://rsds.org/my-story/) - Written by Roslyn Hamilton for the RSDSA blog. Are you engaged in pursuing your dreams? Are you committed to your passion in life? I wasn’t - with 50 years on and off with insufficient priority given to my violin. To my horror I have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Formerly Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy - RSDS
- [An Introduction to Carolyn’s Cards](https://rsds.org/introduction-carolyns-cards/) - By Carolyn McNoldy My name is Carolyn and I am the brains behind Carolyn’s Cards. I have been battling CRPS for eight years. It started in my left elbow after a surgery. It took me about two years to be directed to a doctor who actually knew about CRPS and was able to make the
- [My CRPS Conqueror Story](https://rsds.org/crps-conqueror-story/) - Written by Kristi Oen, CRPS Conqueror, Founder of P.A.I.N. Help, Vice President of the Naples Holistic Chamber of Commerce Like many people with CRPS, I have spent most of my life avoiding and hiding because the reality of living with CRPS is just so cruel. Having conquered my CRPS I am happily sharing my journey
- [I Recovered and So Can You!](https://rsds.org/i-recovered-and-so-can-you/) - Written by Rita Labarbera for the RSDSA blog. “Each patient carries his own doctor inside him.” Norman Cousins “Anatomy of An Illness” It’s an honor and a privilege to write this article for RSDSA, the intent of which is not to offer false hope or ways to manage this wretched condition, but to inform the
- [My Pain Journey: When Physicians Treated with Confidence to Now Fear of Reprisal from the DEA](https://rsds.org/pain-journey-physicians-treated-confidence-now-fear-reprisal-dea/) - Written by Rochelle Odell for the RSDSA blog. NIB, Narrative Inquiry in Bioethics published in Narrative Inquiry in Bioethics • Volume 8 • Number 3 • Winter 2018 I suffer from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), one of the most painful and difficult diseases to treat. Toss in fibromyalgia, multiple spinal problems and osteoarthritis for
- [The Role of the Physical Therapist in Treating CRPS/RSD](https://rsds.org/role-physical-therapist-treating-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps-reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy-syndrome-rsds/) - Written by Christina Price, PT for the RSDSA blog. I am a physical therapist, working on 28 years of practice in Colorado. My first memory of seeing a patient well past the first stages of CRPS was about 24 years ago. She was a middle-aged woman who had injured her foot and ankle, presenting post
- [Hope on the Horizon](https://rsds.org/hope-on-the-horizon/) - Written by Karen Brinkley, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto If you have CRPS, you may already realize that existing treatments do not work as well as we would like. The best hope for improved treatments will come from a better understanding of what is going wrong in CRPS, so that we are
- [Steroids for Pain Flare](https://rsds.org/steroids-pain-flare/) - Written by Steven Richeimer, MD Chief, Division of Pain Medicine Professor of Anesthesiology & Psychiatry Director, Online Master Degree in Pain Medicine University of Southern California Are steroids useful in the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome? Steroids are one of the oldest treatments for complex regional pain syndrome. They appear to be most effective
- [My L-Arginine Story](https://rsds.org/l-arginine-story/) - Written by Katrina Gould I’ve had CRPS/RSD 25 plus years from a devastating injury to my left brachial plexus. I slipped and fell backwards in a parking lot and violently jammed my left arm underneath me. As a result I have severe nerve pain in the upper left quadrant of my body, including my chest,
- [Independence Redefined](https://rsds.org/independence-redefined/) - Written by Elisa Friedlander for the RSDSA blog. Hello dear readers! This post below is from an article I wrote a few months ago. It was published in the Inner Peace Column of our local newspaper, the Ashland Tidings. Enjoy, and please pass on! Click here for the link to her article. Recently, during a
- [Meet Phillip Robert, Chief Encouragement Officer of The Burning Limb Foundation](https://rsds.org/want-introduce-phillip-robert-chief-encouragement-officer-burning-limb-foundation/) - Take a moment to watch this short video of Mr. Phillip Robert who spoke at our conference in Fayetteville, AR as he tells his story and introduces his Foundation which is helping individuals with CRPS and others suffering with chronic pain. You will not disappointed! To learn more about The Burning Limb Foundation, please visit
- [Introducing Jeri Krassner: RSDSA’s Special Events Coordinator](https://rsds.org/introducing-jeri-krassner-rsdsas-special-events-coordinator/) - Jeri Krassner is a former NYC gal working for New York City Hemophilia Chapter and is now the Special Events Coordinator for RSDSA! I work for Jim and you. As a fundraiser, that means I ask people for funds, which is hard, but there are two things to remember that make it easy. You are
- [Baby Steps](https://rsds.org/baby-steps/) - Written by Tatum Bunnett for the RSDSA blog. “Baby steps” has been my motto for half of my life. At the age of nine, I started experiencing intense pain in my feet and lower legs. My doctor discovered that I had a congenital birth disorder in which several of my bones in my feet and ankles
- [A Patient's Experience Inside the Neurologic Relief Center in Fayetteville, AR](https://rsds.org/inside-the-neurologic-relief-center/) - Written by Angie Jones for the RSDSA blog. Four years ago, I was happy, healthy and pain-free. I owned my own business, volunteered in dog rescue, traveled with my family, and enjoyed my life. I had driven three hours to Kansas City and was standing in line when my blood pressure tanked causing me to collapse,
- [CDC Issues Clarification of Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/cdc-issues-clarification-of-guidelines/) - Written by James W. Broatch, MSW, RSDSA Executive Vice President, Director Three years after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released its Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain, which was intended for primary care providers (PCPs), three of the authors recently wrote an article in the April 24th issue of the New
- [An Interview with Ride For Warriors' Eric Moyal](https://rsds.org/eric-moyal/) - Written by Lauren Bentley for the RSDSA blog. As the editor of the RSDSA Newsletter, there are many aspects of the job that I love such as reading about the latest research studies, promoting community awareness events, learning about alternative methods for coping with pain; but perhaps my favorite part is making connections with other
- [The Light Side of Pain](https://rsds.org/the-light-side-of-pain/) - Written by Maria Martinez for the RSDSA blog. I am 50 years old and have been married 30 years. I have a beautiful 27-year-old daughter and a 25-year-old son. They both decided to get married within 6 weeks of each other last year. One gave us a months’ notice and the other 2 days. As
- [Meet our Team: Jim Broatch](https://rsds.org/meet-our-team-jim-broatch/) - This summer, we're taking the time to introduce the RSDSA team to our Warriors and their families so you can know the names and faces behind our organization. What is your name and title? I'm Jim Broatch and I'm the Executive Vice President and Director of RSDSA. How long have you been with RSDSA? I’ve
- [The Reason We Walk at the 4th Annual RSDSA Long Island CRPS Awareness Walk & Expo](https://rsds.org/the-reason-we-walk/) - Written by Debbie ONeal for the RSDSA blog. When you are diagnosed with CRPS, which is ranked as the most painful chronic pain condition known to man, you wonder why more doctors are not aware of what it is or how to treat it. You wonder why there is not more research being conducted and
- [The First Touch](https://rsds.org/the-first-touch/) - Written by Richard Heuser for the RSDSA blog. I was at the 76 mile point of a 100 mile bicycle ride in the Delaware Water Gap area of New Jersey going down a a steep incline at about 44 MPH. When I tried to break the handlebars rotated down and I went off the front
- [Coping With Comments](https://rsds.org/copingwithcomments/) - Written anonymously for the RSDSA blog. A guide of what not to say to someone with an invisible disability. This post is written with the best intentions, directed to educate, not judge nor shame people who may not have sensitivity to topics they not know about. But I would like to touch on the topic
- [Resources for Patients with CRPS/RSD and Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/resources-for-patients-with-crps-rsd-and-chronic-pain/) - Written by Melissa Wardlaw for the RSDSA blog. In my work as a CRPS/RSD, Chronic Illness & Pain Peer Counselor/Advocate, many patients contact me for assistance and support - particularly those who are newly diagnosed. After speaking with CRPS patients, I usually send them a list of resources they may find useful. As we all
- [Meet Our Team: Pam Kientzler](https://rsds.org/meet-our-team-pam-kientzler/) - This summer, we're taking the time to introduce the RSDSA team to our Warriors and their families so you can know the names and faces behind our organization. What is your name and title? I’m Pamela (Pam) Kientzler, and my title is Administrative / IT Support. How long have you been with RSDSA? I’ve been
- [Donate to RSDSA via Instagram](https://rsds.org/donate-via-instagram/) - Did you know that you can host virtual fundraisers for RSDSA on Instagram similar to how so many of our Warriors host them on Facebook? Check out our easy step-by-step guide to adding the donation sticker to your Instagram Story via the mobile app: Login to your Instagram account. While on your timeline (the feed
- [Meet Our Team: Jeri Krassner](https://rsds.org/meet-our-team-jeri-krassner/) - This summer, we're taking the time to introduce the RSDSA team to our Warriors and their families so you can know the names and faces behind our organization. What is your name and title? I’m Jeri Krassner and my title is Special Events Coordinator. How long have you been with RSDSA? I’ve been with RSDSA
- [Meet Our Team: Alexis Davis](https://rsds.org/meet-our-team-alexis-davis/) - This summer, we're taking the time to introduce the RSDSA team to our Warriors and their families so you can know the names and faces behind our organization. What is your name and title? I am Alexis Davis and I am the social media manager for RSDSA. How long have you been with RSDSA? I
- [6th Annual Color The World Orange™ for CRPS/RSD Awareness is Nov. 4](https://rsds.org/color-the-world-orange-2019/) - Written by The Color The World Orange Team Get your orange ready! The sixth annual Color The World Orange™ for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Awareness is November 4th. The easiest way to get involved is to wear orange and post a picture to social media with the hashtag #CRPSOrangeDay. Make sure to ask
- [My Journey to an Amazing Life](https://rsds.org/my-guide-to-an-amazing-life/) - Written by Karen Richards The shower water is too hot, but I dare not turn it down because after two minutes it will become cold. As predicted, within a minute, the hot water has vanished, but I have to suffer in the cold until my conditioner is washed down the drain. Once the torturously icy
- [Drea's CRPS Journey](https://rsds.org/dreas-crps-journey/) - Written by Drea Tunstall-Dooley for the RSDSA blog. In 2007, I was 40-years-old when my life was permanently changed. I was going to get medicine for my friend who could not go outside because of her health. As I was crossing the street, I got hit by a car and ultimately broke my tibia and
- [Meet Our Team: Tracy Geer](https://rsds.org/meet-our-team-tracy-geer/) - This summer, we're taking the time to introduce the RSDSA team to our Warriors and their families so you can know the names and faces behind our organization. What is your name and title? I'm Tracy Geer and I'm the RSDSA Office Manager. How long have you been with RSDSA? November will mark nine years
- [Join RSDSA for our Longest Day of Golf Fundraiser](https://rsds.org/longest-day-of-golf-2019/) - Have you heard? RSDSA's 2019 Longest Day of Golf (LDOG) event will take place on Sunday, September 30th! LDOG is a one-day event to raise funds for RSDSA and bring awareness to complex regional pain syndrome best known as CRPS. This year, we will once again partner with prolific golfer and CRPS advocate, Josh Rosen.
- [Going For Gold: A Story on CRPS and Opportunity](https://rsds.org/crps-and-opportunity/) - Written by Laura Hinkle for the RSDSA blog. On August 24, 1994, I fell climbing up to Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park and had a minor break my ankle. My life changed forever as I was diagnosed with RSD. I went through the common treatments in that time frame. The only thing that I
- [Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Social Security Disability](https://rsds.org/crps-and-social-security-disability/) - Written by Molly Clark for the RSDSA blog Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, is a relatively uncommon condition that causes severe pain and other symptoms, usually after an injury. CRPS can last for a long time and make it impossible for someone to work. Anyone that expects to be out of work for at
- [Samantha Strasser Shares Her CRPS Story](https://rsds.org/samantha-strasser/) - We always appreciate when Warriors of all ages take a moment to share their CRPS story with us. During the 4th Annual RSDSA Long Island CRPS Walk & Expo, we heard 16-year-old Samantha Strasser, a CRPS Warrior for the last eight years, tell her story to attendees. If you are interested in telling your
- [Framing My Pain Through the Lens of Faith](https://rsds.org/framing-my-pain-through-the-lens-of-faith/) - Written by Kelly Hodgkins for the RSDSA blog. My journey with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome started in 2008. I experienced incredible pain in my wrist and it was interfering with my ability to use my right arm. I went to my general practitioner who asked my to see an orthopedic surgeon who diagnosed ganglions. I
- [Barry M. Wein Tells His CRPS Story](https://rsds.org/barry-m-wein-crps-story/) - Barry M. Wein, MSW (He/Him) is a writer, storyteller, advocate and ally. For more than 20 years, he has helped good causes share their stories, so they can do even more good in the world. These days, Barry feels compelled to share his own stories because they simply demand to be told. His voice is
- [Jessica Kennedy Dutkiewicz Discusses CRPS and her Journey with Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/jessica-kennedy-dutkiewicz-crps-chronic-pain/) - Jessica Kennedy Dutkiewicz is a Florida-based vocal chronic pain warrior who often speaks about 1% disorders, medical marijuana, chronic pain awareness, and much more. The RSDSA team did not hesitate to share her full story so those who are looking to learn more about CRPS/RSD, chronic pain, and treatment methods can have yet another resource
- [Finding My Way to Joy Through a Life of Continual Pain](https://rsds.org/finding-my-way-to-joy-through-a-life-of-continual-pain/) - Originally written by Lori Joksch for 110 Magazine. We have republished with permission. A decade ago, I was an R.N. working in the Delivery Unit at Sutter Delta Hospital when I became the victim of a series of horrible events. It began when I tripped over some cables and landed hard on my hands and
- [Abby Sams on Why Little Things Can Make A Big Difference](https://rsds.org/abby-sams-crps/) - Written by Abby Sams for the RSDSA blog. My name is Abby Sams and I was diagnosed with RSD/CRPS at age 19, over seven years after its official development. When I was 12, I injured my knees playing with friends and myself, my family, and my doctors all agreed it was likely a growing pain
- [Jacque Neff's New Battle](https://rsds.org/jacque-neffs-new-battle/) - Written by Jacque Neff for the RSDSA blog. I joined the Army 25 years ago to follow in the footsteps of my family and work to become an officer. I thought I had an idea of what battles laid before me, but little did I know that I was at the beginning of a lifelong
- [Kelly Clendenning on Why CRPS Warriors Need Allies](https://rsds.org/kelly-clendenning-on-why-crps-warriors-need-allies/) - Written by Kelly Clendenning for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? The how is hard to determine as my first mini stroke and seizure happened in 2007 when I was 20 years old. At the time, the pain started in my spine. 12 years later, it is now in my entire
- [Elizabeth Kiss Speaks on Why CRPS Warriors Can't Give Up](https://rsds.org/elizabeth-kiss-crps/) - Written by Elizabeth Kiss for the RSDSA blog. My name is Liz. I live in Alaska and I am 50 years old. I was diagnosed with CRPS in late 2015 after I attended my brothers wedding in Minnesota. I honestly do know what happened other than the next day I woke up and my right
- [Every Person Is Fighting a Battle We Know Nothing About](https://rsds.org/abigail-bourcy-battles/) - Written by Abigail Bourcy for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? My name is Abigail I developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome when I was 12 (10 years ago). I broke my fibula playing soccer and was put in a boot for six weeks. Doctors assumed it was a simple break, but
- [Never Give Up On Yourself](https://rsds.org/never-give-up-on-yourself/) - Written by Julie Manni for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? My journey with CRPS/RSD started in the fall of 2001 when I was 12 years old. I developed a gastric stomach ulcer and while I was on bed rest to heal the ulcer, I developed this severe aching crushing pain
- [Don’t Give Up on Me](https://rsds.org/dont-give-up-on-me/) - Written by Shannon Schildt-Leidig for the RSDSA blog. Anyone who knows me knows what a huge lover of music I am – and that any time I am in the car it is either on the Broadway or Classical channels; though, when it is football season I tend to listen to ESPN. However, there was
- [Emily Baddorf's CRPS Journey](https://rsds.org/emily-baddorf-crps-journey/) - Written by Emily Baddorf for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I developed RSD at the age of 15 following a sprained ankle. The injury did not even hurt at the time and I continued the tennis lesson I was in the middle of. About 24 hours later, my ankle was swollen and
- [Don't Abandon Your Loved Ones With CRPS](https://rsds.org/dont-abandon-your-loved-ones-with-crps/) - Written by Jeff Schwartz for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I do not have CRPS, but my wife battles it. She was diagnosed 2015, but had been battling it beforehand. We believe it resulted from an injury in 2003. What has daily life been like since your diagnosis? As her
- [Connie France is Still Here and Still Fighting CRPS](https://rsds.org/still-here-still-fighting-crps/) - Written by Connie France for the RSDSA blog. In 2016, my father was in his third stage of Alzheimer’s. He was coming out of a truck, but just a little too fast, and I went to grab him so he would not hit the concrete. At that moment I knew I had done something
- [Nicole Shelton Refuses To Give Up Her Life For CRPS](https://rsds.org/nicole-shelton-refuses-to-give-up-her-life-for-crps/) - Written by Nicole C. Shelton, J.D. for the RSDSA blog. How/when did you develop CRPS/RSD? In 1990, at the age of 15, I went in for what should have been a routine arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus. When I went in for my two day post-op appointment, the area below my left
- [Do Not Let The Pain Win](https://rsds.org/do-not-let-the-pain-win/) - Written by Kathleen Fechter for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I hurt my knee at work and my CRPS developed from that injury about 5-6 years ago. I was misdiagnosed about three times. What has daily life been like since your diagnosis? Everyday was limited, I could not walk to
- [Have Hope and Continue to Fight](https://rsds.org/have-hope-and-continue-to-fight/) - Written by Patti Sauer for the RSDSA blog. I broke my tibia sometime around January 2018. After walking on it for four months, enduring several misdiagnoses, and fighting for an MRI, it was confirmed in April that I had a stage 4b break with edema in the bone marrow. This is the worst kind of
- [RSD and PAIN](https://rsds.org/rsd-and-pain/) - Written by Barbara Schaffer for the RSDSA blog. My name is Barbara Schaffer. I am 70 years old and have had RSD for 32 years. It started with a stretched brachial plexus and spread through my entire body. I live with my husband, Paul, of 49 years. My daughter, son-in-law, and three grandsons live a
- [We Are on Fire, but We Are Strong](https://rsds.org/we-are-on-fire-but-we-are-strong/) - Written by Jeannette Pello for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? My CRPS diagnosis was in 2015, but before that I had four injuries in my right foot and the orthopedic told me that could be a result of those previous injuries. In 2015, my injury was the worst because the
- [We Are All in This Together](https://rsds.org/we-are-all-in-this-together/) - Written by Devery Mills for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? What has life been like since your diagnosis? I have been a nurse for many years and worked in the ER and Cardiac. In 2007, I was seen in the ER with a nasty stomach bug. Traditional medications were not
- [The Sun Will Rise Again](https://rsds.org/the-sun-will-rise-again/) - Written by Juanita Franke for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I developed CRPS in October of 2018. While working as a faculty member at Pacific Northwest Ballet and teaching Pilates, I sustained a minor injury to my left knee. I knelt down, heard a ”pop, ” and spent the afternoon icing
- [Do Whatever It Takes to Find a Cure](https://rsds.org/do-whatever-it-takes-to-find-a-cure/) - Written by Melissa Uchic for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? My initial injury is more of an educated guess between myself and my doctors. I can trace symptoms back to an epidural during childbirth in 2005. What has daily life been like since your diagnosis? My life has been ever-changing
- [You Are Strong. You Made It This Far.](https://rsds.org/you-are-strong/) - Written by Barbara Graham for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I was diagnosed with RSD in April 2004. The injury occurred in July 2003. I worked in the security department of one of Rockford, Illinois' leading hospitals. My partner and I received a call to the psychiatric floor. They were
- [You Will Be Stronger in the End!](https://rsds.org/you-will-be-stronger-in-the-end/) - Written by Rachel W. for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? In September 2018, I was at tumbling practice and I sprained my ankle. My physical therapist noticed some signs of CRPS during my first few sessions, and at my one month follow up appointment with my orthopedic doctor, I was
- [Let's Help Others Understand CRPS](https://rsds.org/help-others-understand-crps/) - Written by Shanna Parlock for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? On April 27, 2007 I went for the first horseback ride of the year, and since my daughter was born. After it, my life would never be the same. During the ride, my horse was spooked and threw me off.
- [I Wish I Could Do The Things I Used To Do](https://rsds.org/i-wish-i-could-do-the-things-i-used-to-do/) - Written by Kellie Slater for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? My original injury happened in August of 2012. Even though I saw providers on a regular basis and continued to have excruciating pain, and some of these providers thought it could be CRPS, I was not formally diagnosed until later.
- [We Are In This Together!](https://rsds.org/we-are-in-this-together/) - Written by Shannon McMullen for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I developed CRPS in spring 2018, following multiple ankle sprains that never fully healed. I was cleared to run again by my doctor, but that led to aggressive tendonitis that would not go away. Eventually, I was in a boot
- [Through It All I Persevere](https://rsds.org/through-it-all-i-persevere/) - Written by Kelly Considine for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS? Imagine being turned away from doctors when they learn of your CRPS diagnosis. Imagine being told you would be better off having cancer. Imagine not one, but several doctors recommending an amputation when they do not fully understand the underlying
- [Turn to Those Who Have Your Back](https://rsds.org/turn-to-those-who-have-your-back/) - Written by Alissa Brown for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I turned around too quickly on a tile floor which resulted in a sprained knee and CRPS. This happened in January of 2010. What has daily life been like since your diagnosis? Somehow, every day is the same, but also
- [Buckle-Up Young Warrior: An Inspirational Story for Adolescents with CRPS](https://rsds.org/buckle-up-young-warrior-an-inspirational-story-for-adolescent-with-crps/) - Written by Madison McKune for the RSDSA blog. I know your favorite stories start with the classic phrase of “once upon a time”, or have these amazing, colorful, vivid, superheroes that somehow in the brink of the scariest moments turn bad into good. I know that this diagnosis you just received seems like one of
- [Be as Positive as You Can](https://rsds.org/be-as-positive-as-you-can/) - Written by Lisa Marie Weiner for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I developed CRPS/RSD after I had a knee surgery. Originally, I hurt it playing softball when I was 15 and aggravated it again when I was playing again at age 21. I had surgery and it was supposed to
- [I Have Made It This Far](https://rsds.org/i-have-made-it-this-far/) - Written by Colleen C. Ross for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? Well, that is actually a really great question! I suffered a back injury around 2008ish, did not really get adequate medical treatment until 2009, and opted for a laminectomy at L5-S1. I pretty much knew right after surgery that
- [Olivia Erdman's New Life with CRPS](https://rsds.org/olivia-erdman-crps/) - Special thanks to Olivia Erdman for the taking the time to create this amazing vlog for her YouTube Channel. Take a moment to watch to learn more about her diagnosis, journey, friendships, and more. Please consider making a donation to RSDSA today!
- [5 CRPS Lessons From My Pain Psychiatrist](https://rsds.org/5crpslessons/) - Written by Carrie Cleary for the RSDSA blog. I had my first spine surgery, a laminectomy in 2008, at the age of 45. That was followed by a multi-level fusion in 2009. This is where we believed the CRPS started. I had two cervical spine fusions a few years after this. I had nerve blocks
- [Thoughts From The Sibling of a CRPS/RSD Warrior](https://rsds.org/crps-sibling/) - Written by Susan L. Schildt for the RSDSA blog. I have been asked, as a sibling of an RSD Warrior, to share my thoughts and feelings on this wicked disease. I am not good at sharing my feelings, but as I thought through this I thought that using the letters of the acronyms of this
- [Incomparable Pain](https://rsds.org/incomparable-pain/) - Written by Hydi Godsey for the RSDSA blog. My name is Hydi Godsey, I am a 51-year-old woman who has been married for 30 years. I have two girls. One of them is a 23-year-old in pharmacy school and the other is a 19-year-old freshman in college. This is the first year my husband and
- [Thoughts From The Parents of a CRPS/RSD Warrior](https://rsds.org/cprs-parents/) - Written by John and Mary Ann Schildt for the RSDSA blog. It was a day like all days, but one that would change our lives forever. Our daughter was a freshman music therapy major at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia. On February 12, 1990 she called us about extreme pain in her right hand/wrist. There
- [Set a Goal Each Day](https://rsds.org/set-a-goal-each-day/) - Written by Christopher Skinner for the RSDSA blog. Your struggles don't have to be lonely or a family struggle! There are good people out there to help! I am a Christian man with full body Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). I have been full body for about a year now. I was playing basketball with
- [What Happens When the Strong Get Tired?](https://rsds.org/what-happens-when-the-strong-get-tired/) - Written by Scott Setchel for the RSDSA blog. What happens when the strong get tired? What happens when we don't want to fight anymore? Is this what I am reduced to? Once I was full of life Once I was full of joy Once I was full of laughter I endured cancer, not once,
- [Awareness Will One Day Bring Us a Cure](https://rsds.org/awareness-will-one-day-bring-us-a-cure/) - Written by Shannon Beckman for the RSDSA blog. In 2009, I was at a concert to see my favorite band. I was downstairs and I heard the music start so I ran up the stairs in my flip flops. I stumbled and ended up falling backwards, landing on the step behind me, and hyperextending my
- [CRPS Guided Me to My Calling](https://rsds.org/crps-guided-me-to-my-calling/) - Written by Marisol Pérez for the RSDSA blog. Hi there. This is a part of my CRPS story. I developed CRPS following a right ankle surgery in 2012. I was 25 at the time. I enjoyed the outdoors, jogging, and walking my dog (now I have three). Prior to the surgery, I was told it
- [CRPS Warriors Are Not Pretending](https://rsds.org/crps-warriors-are-not-pretending/) - Written by Judi Soderberg for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? For 25 years I had a shoulder issue that doctors diagnosed as Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. I tried very hard to work with that and just let it go, but the pain increased over the years. So when a vascular surgeon
- [RSDSA's Rare Disease Week - 2020](https://rsds.org/rsdsas-rare-disease-week-2020/) - Rare Disease Day is held annually on the last day of February to raise awareness of rare diseases. This year, Rare Disease Day is Saturday, February 29th, 2020, but RSDSA is working to spread awareness for CRPS all week long. Check out our daily virtual activities and join us if you can! Monday: Make your
- [Be Your Own Advocate](https://rsds.org/be-your-own-advocate/) - Written by April Ball for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I had an epidural injection for a herniated disc that I had a reaction to. It was my third injection and it hurt pretty bad when the pain doctor did it. It was unlike the others I had. I cried
- [One Hour at a Time, One Day at a Time](https://rsds.org/one-hour-at-a-time-one-day-at-a-time/) - Written by Kathleen Derby for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I was in a bad car accident in 1977, the year I graduated from high school. The following year, I had surgery on both of my feet. It was a bunionectomy on each foot. I was 19 and my doctor
- [The Highs and Lows of CRPS](https://rsds.org/the-highs-and-lows-of-crps/) - Written by Sandy Geddes for the RSDSA blog. I turned 50 in January 2019. Fifty was supposed to be my year. I even did the SNL Sally O’Malley skit as a joke on my birthday. You know the one: “I like to kick & stretch & kick! I’m 50! Fifty years old!” I set big
- [In A Flash](https://rsds.org/in-a-flash/) - Written by Sue Racaniello for the RSDSA blog. In a flash A life can change In a flash, the flame ignited In a flash, my world divided Minutes to hours, hours to days My mind is unable to leave this maze Days to weeks, weeks to months Time is racing yet I
- [Continue Pushing, Continue Fighting](https://rsds.org/continue-pushing-continue-fighting/) - Written by Destinee Macklin for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? On May 11, 2018, I was the passenger in a vehicle we were using to conduct patrol. During a routine traffic stop, a suspect bailed out of the passenger side of vehicle armed with a handgun. As I excited my vehicle to
- [In Tune](https://rsds.org/in-tune/) - Written by Sue Racaniello for the RSDSA blog. My body used to walk through life unaware of it's surroundings It was a vehicle to get me to point B It's supposed to be that way, or is it? Should I feel every nuance around me? Every whisper of the wind on my hand, every
- [A High Degree of Uncertainty](https://rsds.org/a-high-degree-of-uncertainty/) - This piece was written by Jenny Picciotto and first appeared on ForGrace.org. My journey with chronic pain began with a repetitive stress injury to my foot from playing tennis. Tennis was new for me, but it was an activity my husband had loved his entire life. With kids approaching college, I saw it as a
- [My Life and Pain Levels are Constantly Changing](https://rsds.org/my-life-and-pain-levels-are-constantly-changing/) - Written by Jessica L. for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I first developed CRPS in June of 2014 at the age of 16. On June 12th I was playing Giant Jenga with friends when someone lost their balance and came down hard on my left foot. I had broken that
- [Find Anything to Help Cope](https://rsds.org/find-anything-to-help-cope/) - Written by Julianne Williams for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I developed RSD when I was 38. I fell down some outdoor stairs and flew into a parking lot. I crushed about eight bones in my foot and ankle. What has daily life been like since your diagnosis? My life
- [You Will Survive This Storm](https://rsds.org/you-will-survive-this-storm/) - Written by Ross McCreery for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? In 2005 I had a surgery to remove a cyst from my left wrist. Immediately after the surgery my entire arm started to swell right to my shoulder, and I started suffering from intense burning pain. My entire arm changed
- [None of Us Wanted Our Lives Altered](https://rsds.org/none-of-us-wanted-our-lives-altered-crps/) - Written by Christine Sibley for the RSDSA blog. My name is Christine Sibley. I am a 43-year-old mom, athlete, body builder, and runner who also loves Jiu Jitsu! I am a certified nursing assistant at a senior living facility in North Branford. I describe myself in a present way, because although CRPS literally ripped these
- [Battling CRPS Is No Small Feat](https://rsds.org/battling-crps-is-no-small-feat/) - Written by Gina Clark for the RSDSA blog. How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I was officially diagnosed with CRPS in September 2019. I have had close to 10 years of injuries and surgeries that have led to a significant amount of trauma to my lower right leg, foot, and sural nerve. I was
- [Podcasts, Pools, and Patience - Melissa's CRPS Journey](https://rsds.org/podcasts-pools-and-patience-melissas-crps-journey/) - Written for the RSDSA blog by Melissa Adams How and when did you develop CRPS/RSD? I had an Achilles surgery in May 2016. Shortly after the surgery I had a HUGE fall. The pain was so severe and different from the surgery pain. I kept complaining about it, but was told it was all in
- [Every Day That I Am Not in Pain Is a Good Day](https://rsds.org/every-day-that-i-am-not-in-pain-is-a-good-day/) - Written for the RSDSA blog by Maya S. Hi! My name is Maya S. and I am sixteen years old. Shortly before my tenth birthday, I began feeling severe pain in my right foot, but I had not had any type of injury. In just a few weeks, I became unable to walk, wear clothes
- [Helping Others Is the Best Cure to Any of My Ailments](https://rsds.org/helping-others-is-the-best-cure-to-any-of-my-ailments/) - Written for the RSDSA blog by Elyssa Weiss. My story is nothing short of a miracle, I do say that very humbly, please know. I have Grace I hardly deserve. On Christmas Eve 2015 I fell asleep and somehow crushed my brachial plexus and then went into a coma. I was not under the influence of
- [As Parents, We Did Everything We Could](https://rsds.org/as-parents-we-did-everything-we-could/) - Written by Isabel and reposted with permission on the RSDSA blog. My 17-year-old son broke his leg at football practice the summer before his senior year of high school. The X-ray showed a broken fibula in two places and one of the pieces of bone was pinching the peroneal nerve. The orthopedic surgeon was concerned
- [CRPS: The Viral Connection](https://rsds.org/crps-the-viral-connection/) - Written by Dr. Katinka van der Merwe for the RSDSA blog. Ten years ago, I treated my first CRPS patient, Carlos. Carlos had full body CRPS and suffered from gastroparesis. Carlos had no quality of life left, and would curl into a ball each time he ate the smallest bite of food, screaming pain ravaging
- [Shining a Light - The Fight Against CRPS/RSD Continues](https://rsds.org/shining-a-light-the-fight-against-crps-rsd-continues/) - Written by Bryan D. Pope of The Cochran Firm for the RSDSA blog as a silver sponsor of RSDSA's First Virtual CRPS Awareness Walk. The last five months have been hard on everyone as we deal with the impacts of COVID-19 in our society. I have represented victims of negligence my entire career and have seen people
- [FAQs - RSDSA's Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness Conference - 2020](https://rsds.org/2020conferencefaqs/) - The RSDSA team is excited to have you join our first virtual conference from October 19th through October 22nd. Below are a few FAQs to ensure you have an amazing experience! Q. Is the conference free? The conference is 100% free to join! Q. When does registration close? Registration does not close! You
- [CRPS Warrior Kathleen Coleman's Story](https://rsds.org/crps-warrior-kathleen-colemans-story/) - Submitted by Jay Conner and Kathleen Coleman for the RSDSA blog. CRPS Warrior Kathleen Coleman is the biggest Tampa Bay Lightning fan you'll ever meet. She lives in Arizona and wanted RSDSA to help share her message of hope and gratitude via the below video by Jay Conner of Jaybird Media. Please consider making a donation
- [Shelter Me From The Rain](https://rsds.org/shelter-me-from-the-rain/) - One of the biggest things I have learned is that you have to push through the pain every day, in your own way. Any way that you can do it.
- [Ask As Many Questions as Possible. No Question Is a Bad Question.](https://rsds.org/ask-as-many-questions-as-possible-no-question-is-a-bad-question/) - Without a doubt, the best therapy for CRPS/RSD (or anything else for that matter) is spending time with my grandchildren.
- [Do What Makes You Happy and Don’t Give Up](https://rsds.org/do-what-makes-you-happy/) - Life has definitely had its ups and downs since my diagnosis. It is important to make sure you take care of yourself and know your limits.
- [But the One Thing You Cannot Ever Do Is Quit](https://rsds.org/but-the-one-thing-you-cannot-ever-do-is-quit/) - My good days are few and far between (more bad than good!), but I always try to find the good in the day ahead no matter how much pain I am in.
- [The Key Is to Keep Pushing](https://rsds.org/the-key-is-to-keep-pushing/) - Once we can understand that not everyone will grasp what we go though, unless there is grossly visible swelling, we can explain, advocate, and even teach/preach about this physically and mentally debilitating medical condition.
- [You Will Be Found](https://rsds.org/you-will-be-found/) - Music has always been a huge lifeline for me, even more so the past four years as it rescued me from the pits of hell battling the beast known as RSD/CRPS.
- [I Never Let CRPS Define Me](https://rsds.org/i-never-let-crps-define-me/) - “Our condition is invisible but we are invincible.”
- [I Will Help the Unseen Be Heard](https://rsds.org/i-will-help-the-unseen-be-heard/) - Chronically With A Cause, is an Instagram page dedicated to building connections, giving support, and raising awareness.
- [An Overview of RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/an-overview-of-rsd-crps/) - There is hope. Keep trying new things, medications and treatments. You never know when that next one will work for you.
- [My Pain Is Not Made Up](https://rsds.org/my-pain-is-not-made-up/) - I would like people without CRPS to understand that even though I look fine, I may be experiencing great discomfort.
- [Focus On Small and Simple Successes](https://rsds.org/focus-on-small-and-simple-successes/) - For me, as no stranger to chronic pain, accepting my new life pattern has helped me gain a small foothold on this long climb back to a fulfilling life.
- [I Try to Be a More Positive Person](https://rsds.org/i-try-to-be-a-more-positive-person/) - As the days turned into weeks and then months, I opened my eyes to other patients and heard their stories. My outlook changed and now I try to be a more positive person.
- [Review of The Healing Journal: Guided Prompts and Inspiration for Life with Illness](https://rsds.org/review-of-the-healing-journal-guided-prompts-and-inspiration-for-life-with-illness/) - Doing the inner work by answering the difficult questions and reaffirming positive thoughts sets you up for a very therapeutic experience.
- [Remember, It Is Your Body, It Doesn’t Belong to CRPS](https://rsds.org/body-doesnt-belong-to-crps/) - Needless to say, CRPS completely changed my life. I went from an active person to someone loopy on meds all the time and sitting on the couch all day.
- [I Give Because It Is My Heart’s Desire](https://rsds.org/i-give-because-it-is-my-hearts-desire/) - I give because it is my heart's desire to lessen some of that despair for just one person at a time.
- [Moving Forward Has Not Been Easy, but Necessary](https://rsds.org/moving-forward-has-not-been-easy-but-necessary/) - Throughout all of my journey so far, as hard as some days are, I have been gifted an amazing support system, great medical care, and I am now working on rebuilding myself.
- [My Faith Has Helped Me Through This Journey](https://rsds.org/my-faith-has-helped-me-through-this-journey/) - I remember that hard times don’t last forever and there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
- [Surviving CRPS Through Peer Advocacy](https://rsds.org/surviving-crps-through-peer-advocacy/) - Listen to Melissa share incredible insight into CRPS as well as offer valuable advice for living with a chronic illness.
- [Laura’s Path to Pain Relief](https://rsds.org/lauras-path-to-pain-relief/) - In January 2018, my world was turned upside down after doctors told me I had a ganglion cyst on my foot.
- [FAQs - RSDSA's Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness Conference - 2022](https://rsds.org/faqs-rsdsas-treating-the-whole-person-optimizing-wellness-conference-2022/) - The RSDSA team is excited to have you join our third virtual conference from September 12th through September 15th, 2022 Below are a few FAQs to ensure you have an amazing experience!
- [When I Close My Eyes](https://rsds.org/when-i-close-my-eyes/) - When I close my eyes, I grow wings and fly; I use my wings to fly towards the sky. I abandon my reality of chronic illness as I soar towards freedom.
- [If You Feel Pain, You’re Alive. If You Feel Other People’s Pain, You’re a Human Being.](https://rsds.org/if-you-feel-pain-youre-alive-if-you-feel-other-peoples-pain-youre-a-human-being/) - This past year, has been a very difficult one for me. I have been in undated with new symptoms and co-morbidities. Medical appointments and needed rest have occupied much of my time
- [The Top 10 Shoe Brands for CRPS From a CRPS Perspective](https://rsds.org/top-10-shoe-brands-crps/) - I was successful in finding shoes that fit my lifestyle, and I figure that others may have the same issues I did when looking for shoes. I have put together a list of my findings for all CRPS sufferers who are in need of some kicks.

## Pages

- [Home](https://rsds.org/)
- [The CRPS Connection: Adult Weekend Retreat Scholarship Application](https://rsds.org/the-crps-connection-adult-weekend-retreat-scholarship-application/)
- [Research](https://rsds.org/research/)
- [Donate](https://rsds.org/donate/)
- [For Youth](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/for-youth/)
- [Support Groups](https://rsds.org/community/support-groups/)
- [Contact Us](https://rsds.org/contact/)
- [Join](https://rsds.org/join/)
- [Young Adult Weekend Retreat](https://rsds.org/community/young-adult-weekend-retreat/) - Our YAWRs have been a great success as they offer young CRPS Warriors the opportunity to build a support system.
- [Media](https://rsds.org/media/)
- [2025 Conference Hub](https://rsds.org/2025-conference/)
- [About](https://rsds.org/about/)
- [Advocacy](https://rsds.org/advocacy/)
- [Resources](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/resources/)
- [Patient Assistance Funds](https://rsds.org/community/patient-assistance-fund/)
- [August 2026 Support Group Leader Training](https://rsds.org/august-2026-support-group-leader-training/)
- [Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles About CRPS/RSD and Related Syndromes (2023 Archive)](https://rsds.org/existing-papers/) - RSDSA does not endorse any particular treatment, medication, publication, guideline, etc. but rather supplies these for the education of the CRPS community.
- [TJ Whalen Assistance Form Application](https://rsds.org/tjwhalenapp/)
- [Educational Presentations](https://rsds.org/research/educational-presentations/)
- [Post-Diagnosis Steps](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/post-diagnosis-steps/)
- [Coping Strategies](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/coping-strategies/) - Our community members will tell you that you can live a productive, rewarding life with CRPS.
- [How CRPS is Diagnosed](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/how-crps-is-diagnosed/)
- [2025 Conference Agenda](https://rsds.org/2025-conference-agenda/) - View the full agenda for the 2025 Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness conference.
- [Post-Registration FAQs](https://rsds.org/post-registration-faqs/)
- [Treatments](https://rsds.org/research/treatments/)
- [Pre-Registration FAQs](https://rsds.org/2025-prereg-faqs/)
- [Research Grants](https://rsds.org/research/research-grants/)
- [Send a Child to Camp](https://rsds.org/community/send-a-child-to-camp/)
- [CRPS Warriors Memorial](https://rsds.org/community/crps-warriors-memorial/)
- [Clinical Treatment Guidelines](https://rsds.org/research/clinical-guidelines/)
- [Search](https://rsds.org/search/)
- [News](https://rsds.org/news/)
- [Carolyn's Cards](https://rsds.org/community/carolyns-cards/)
- [2022 Initiatives](https://rsds.org/2022-initiatives/)
- [Start a Support Group](https://rsds.org/community/support-groups/start-a-support-group/)
- [Community](https://rsds.org/community/)
- [Signs & Symptoms](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/signs-symptoms/)
- [Resources for Caregivers](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/resources-for-caregivers/)
- [Definition of CRPS](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/definition-of-crps/)
- [Living With CRPS](https://rsds.org/living-with-crps/)
- [Shop](https://rsds.org/shop/)
- [Events](https://rsds.org/events/)

## Quotes

- [Lifelong Friendships](https://rsds.org/quote/lifelong-friendships/) - I am so glad I did not talk myself out of attending, as I almost did. I would have missed out undoubtably on the best weekend of my life. I came back with a more open mindset, more confidence, a better understanding of how to advocate and care for myself. I also built lifelong friendships
- [Renewed Sense of Hope](https://rsds.org/quote/renewed-sense-of-hope/) - Every part of the weekend—from the conversations to the activities to just being in a space where I didn’t have to explain myself—was truly positive and healing. I left with new friends, fresh perspective, and most importantly, a renewed sense of hope and belonging. - YAWR Nashville Attendee
- [Can’t Even Put Into Words](https://rsds.org/quote/cant-even-put-into-words/) - I can’t even put into words how amazing this weekend has been getting to hang out with people my age who suffer with CRPS. The kindness, the selflessness, the strength and the bravery. - YAWR Nashville Attendee
- [Difference In My Life](https://rsds.org/quote/difference-in-my-life/) - I knew from the first program that I would want to keep coming as many times as I can. It has made such a difference in my life getting to know others who really “get it” and sharing our stories – as well as some great experiences! - YAWR Austin Attendee
- [I Have New Friends](https://rsds.org/quote/i-have-new-friends/) - Thank you for giving me the weekend I needed. I learned so much! I don’t feel alone anymore. I left with a new perspective on living with CRPS and I am now an advocate for myself as well as others with CRPS. And I have new friends! - YAWR Austin Attendee
- [Impact Many Lives](https://rsds.org/quote/impact-many-lives/) - Words can’t express how grateful I am to those who have helped make these weekends happen. They are a direct way to impact many lives for the better. - YAWR New Orleans Attendee
- [Amazing Memories](https://rsds.org/quote/amazing-memories/) - YAWR helped me make amazing memories to take back some of those youth years stolen. - YAWR New Orleans Attendee
- [Invisible Yet Life Altering Condition](https://rsds.org/quote/invisible-yet-life-altering-condition/) - With an invisible yet life altering condition, YAWR helped me learn to advocate for myself, find the treatments I need, and advocate for others who don’t know of this condition and might have it or know someone who does. - YAWR New Orleans Attendee
- [Made Me Feel Together](https://rsds.org/quote/made-me-feel-together/) - I didn’t realize how alone I felt until I met these people who made me feel together [as we're] fighting for our best lives. I am so thankful this retreat was possible. - YAWR San Diego Attendee
- [Finally Met Other Young Adults](https://rsds.org/quote/finally-met-other-young-adults/) - I’m a young, working professional and graduate student who has been living with the CRPS diagnosis for over 13 years and I have never been to a retreat like this one. I finally met other young adults who live every day with similar hurdles. - YAWR San Diego Attendee
- [Twelve New Friends](https://rsds.org/quote/twelve-new-friends/) - I’ve had CRPS since 2002 and I’ve only met one person until now. This weekend will forever be one of the best I’ve had. Not only have I got to hear some amazing stories, I now have twelve new friends who are my heroes. We all are unique in our own way but we also

## Events

- [Young Adult Weekend Retreat: Scottsdale](https://rsds.org/event/yawr2026/) - RSDSA's 2026 Young Adult Weekend Retreat will take place June 26 - June 29 in Scottsdale!
- [Myrtle Beach Pelicans vs. Fayetteville Woodpeckers Game Fundraiser](https://rsds.org/event/myrtle-beach-pelicans-vs-fayetteville-woodpeckers-game-fundraiser/) - The Horry & Brunswick Counties CRPS/RSD Support Group is hosting a fundraiser with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans this August in support of RSDSA.
- [The CRPS Connection: Adult Weekend Retreat in Philadelphia](https://rsds.org/event/crpsconnection26/) - Our inaugural "The CRPS Connection - Strategies and Skills for Living with CRPS" event will take place October 2-5 in Philadelphia!
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Gabi Baylor](https://rsds.org/event/gabi-baylor/) - With more than 20 years of lived experience with CRPS, Gabi brings a deeply personal understanding of the stigma, barriers, and isolation that can arise within the disability community.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Norman Harden, MD](https://rsds.org/event/normanharden2026/) - Dr. Harden will join us to discuss RSDSA's relationship with the International Research Consortium for CRPS as well as additional research updates.
- [RSDSA's 7th Annual Walk for CRPS](https://rsds.org/event/2026walk/) - We’re excited to bring our national walk and day of awareness to a town near you! Learn more about registering and donating.
- [Walk Strong 2026](https://rsds.org/event/walk-strong-2026/) - Join Burning Hope in walking a 3k in support of the CRPS Community on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
- [Virtual Young Adult Support Group](https://rsds.org/event/virtual-young-adult-support-group-298/) - The Virtual Young Adult Support Group is for young adults with CRPS between the ages of 18 and 35. The group’s mission is to provide a positive environment to support one another, share information, and share experiences.
- [Color The World Orange™ Day](https://rsds.org/event/color-the-world-orange-day-2026/) - Color The World Orange™ is an annual event held on the first Monday of November to spread awareness of CRPS/RSD.
- [Virtual Young Adult Support Group](https://rsds.org/event/virtual-young-adult-support-group/) - The Virtual Young Adult Support Group is for young adults with CRPS between the ages of 18 and 35. The group’s mission is to provide a positive environment to support one another, share information, and share experiences.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Abbott's Dr. Kiran Patel - Understanding Your Options For Targeted Pain Relief](https://rsds.org/event/kiranpatelnov25/) - RSDSA is hosting a free livestream with Dr. Kiran Patel on Wednesday, November 5th at 7PM Eastern.
- [Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness Conference](https://rsds.org/event/2025-conference/) - Join us at the Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel in Irving, Texas (Dallas) to discuss the latest updates on CRPS, hear from experts, and to network with others who truly understand from Friday, October 24th to Saturday, October 25th.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Dr. Anita Davis](https://rsds.org/event/anita-sept25/) - We’re welcoming Dr. Anita back to our livestream series for Pain Awareness Month to talk about how to deal with dismissive physicians.
- [Connecticut's CRPS Awareness Roll 'n Stroll](https://rsds.org/event/connecticuts-crps-awareness-roll-n-stroll/) - Connecticut's CRPS Awareness Roll 'n Stroll will take place in Winstead, CT on September 20th!
- [5th Annual Picklin' for a Cure](https://rsds.org/event/5th-annual-picklin-for-a-cure/) - The 5th Annual Picklin’ for a Cure from October 17-19 , 2025 will take place at Udall Pickleball Facility in Tucson, Arizona.
- [Color The World Orange™ Day](https://rsds.org/event/color-the-world-orange-day-2025/) - Color The World Orange™ is an annual event held on the first Monday of November to spread awareness of CRPS/RSD.
- [Color The World Orange™ Day](https://rsds.org/event/color-the-world-orange-day-2024/) - Color The World Orange™ is an annual event held on the first Monday of November to spread awareness of CRPS/RSD.
- [GivingTuesday](https://rsds.org/event/givingtuesday2024/) - Please help us make a difference in the lives of people with CRPS by making a donation on Tuesday, December 3rd via rsds.org/donate!
- [GivingTuesday](https://rsds.org/event/givingtuesday2025/) - Please help us make a difference in the lives of people with CRPS by making a donation on Tuesday, December 2nd via rsds.org/donate!
- [D-Shee by the Sea - Walk & Stroll to Support CRPS Awareness](https://rsds.org/event/dshee2025/) - Join us in Ocean City, NJ on Sunday, September 14th for a CRPS Awareness Walk & Stroll led by Daniel "D-Shee" Sheehan
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Dr. Amir Minerbi](https://rsds.org/event/ucsd-may-2025-452/) - Dr. Amir Minerbi is a part of a team of researchers who developed AI technology that can detect patterns in gut bacteria to identify CRPS with remarkable accuracy, potentially transforming how CRPS is diagnosed and treated.
- [Young Adult Weekend Retreat: Nashville](https://rsds.org/event/young-adult-retreat-nashville/) - RSDSA's 2025 Young Adult Weekend Retreat will take place June 27 - June 30th, in Nashville! Young adults with CRPS between the ages of 18 to 35 will spend the weekend with fellow Warriors who fully understand what they are going through.
- [RSDSA's 6th Annual Virtual CRPS Awareness Walk](https://rsds.org/event/rsdsas-6th-annual-virtual-crps-awareness-walk/) - Our virtual walk is open to participants of all abilities. Whether you walk, roll, or run along with us, we want to see you on June 7th.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with UC San Diego Health](https://rsds.org/event/ucsd-may-2025/) - UCSD researchers will join us to discuss a study examining the efficacy of a botanical CBD extract for pain relief in individuals diagnosed with CRPS. They will also answer questions about finding studies focused on CRPS in your area.
- [CRPS/RSD SoCal Friendship Gathering & Stroll](https://rsds.org/event/socal-friendship-gather-and-stroll/) - We invite all individuals living with CRPS/RSD and their families, friends, supporters and caregivers to the Southern California Friendship Gathering and Stroll at Veterans Park in Cypress, CA.
- [Walk Strong 2025](https://rsds.org/event/walk-strong-2025/) - Join Burning Hope in walking a 3k in support of the CRPS Community on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Philip Getson, D.O.](https://rsds.org/event/dr-getson-march-2025/) - RSDSA is hosting a livestream with Philip Getson, D.O. He will join us to speak about the latest developments with CRPS and answer 20 questions provided by the CRPS community.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Dr. Lisa Van Allen](https://rsds.org/event/livestream-with-lisa-van-allen/) - Join RSDSA for our first Facebook and YouTube Live of the year as we speak with Dr. Lisa Van Allen on Thursday, January 16th at 4:00p Eastern as she discusses CRPS and advocacy.
- [Designer Bag Bingo](https://rsds.org/event/designer-bag-bingo/) - The Designer Bag Bingo fundraiser is set for January 9, 2025, and promises to be an evening of excitement and generosity, all in support of RSDSA.
- [Spelfiefest 2024](https://rsds.org/event/spelfiefest-2024/) - The Midnight Creatives Collective is hosting Spelfiefest, a local music and art variety festival with proceeds benefiting RSDSA!
- [POSTPONED - Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness 2024](https://rsds.org/event/treating-the-whole-person-optimizing-wellness-2024/) - Join RSDSA for our free virtual Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness conference taking place Monday, October 21, 2024 through Thursday, October 24, 2024!
- [6th Annual Flame Out - A Walk to Extinguish RSD/CRPS](https://rsds.org/event/6th-annual-flame-out-a-walk-to-extinguish-rsd-crps/) - We will record the donation and forward it to RSDSA. 100% of donations go to RSDSA. All costs of running the walk are underwritten by long time supporters.
- [4th Annual "Picklin' for a Cure"](https://rsds.org/event/4th-annual-picklin-for-a-cure/) - The 4th Annual Picklin’ for a Cure will continue to raise awareness and funds for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association and Lewy Body Dementia Association as well as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association.
- [2024 Longest Day of Golf](https://rsds.org/event/2024-longest-day-of-golf/) - The Longest Day of Golf is a one-day event to raise funds for RSDSA and bring awareness to CRPS. Each year, we partner with a prolific golfer and CRPS advocate.
- [Young Adult Weekend Retreat: Denver](https://rsds.org/event/young-adult-retreat-denver/) - RSDSA's 2024 Young Adult Retreat will take place in Denver, Colorado from Friday, May 31st to Monday, June 3rd!
- [RSDSA 5th Annual Virtual CRPS Awareness Walk](https://rsds.org/event/rsdsa-5th-annual-virtual-crps-awareness-walk/) - This is our 5th Virtual Walk as well as a celebration of RSDSA's 40th Anniversary!
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - September 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-september-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - August 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-august-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - July 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-july-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - June 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-june-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - April 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-april-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - May 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-may-2024-425/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events in 2024.
- [Walk Strong 2024](https://rsds.org/event/walk-strong-2024/) - Join Burning Hope and RSDSA in walking a 3k in support of the CRPS Community. All proceeds will aid in research and treatment options for those suffering from CRPS.
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Gregory Anderson](https://rsds.org/event/livestream-with-gregory-anderson/) - Join RSDSA for a livestream on Wednesday, January 17th at 7:00p Eastern as we speak with Gregory Anderson about the Maya Kowalski case (Kowalski v JHACH).
- [The Coalition Against Pediatric Pain’s (TCAPP) Pediatric Pain Week](https://rsds.org/event/tcapp2024/) - The 2024 camp will be from July 16-20 at The Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville, Kentucky!
- [Facebook and YouTube Live with Lynn Clemons CLT, MMP, LMT and Mark F Davy MD](https://rsds.org/event/livestream-with-lynn-clemonds-mark-davy/) - Join RSDSA for our Facebook Live with Lynn Clemons CLT, MMP, LMT and Mark F Davy MD on Wednesday, December 13th at 7:00p Eastern as they discuss Lymphedema Treatment for CRPS.
- [Music Through the Scope of Disability](https://rsds.org/event/music-through-the-scope-of-disability/) - Music Through the Scope of Disability is a social awareness musical performance organized, written, and performed by CRPS Warrior Spencer Hart-Thompson.
- [Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness 2023](https://rsds.org/event/treating-the-whole-person-optimizing-wellness-2023/) - Join RSDSA for our free virtual Treating the Whole Person: Optimizing Wellness conference taking place Monday, November, 6 2023 through Thursday, November 9, 2023.
- [CRPS Expo hosted by "Tales of the CRPS"](https://rsds.org/event/crps-expo-hosted-by-tales-of-the-crps/) - Join us for the CRPS Expo on Friday, November 3, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida!
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - February 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-february-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events through March 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - March 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-march-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events through March 2024.
- [Life-Changing Treatments for Chronic Foot Pain - January 2024](https://rsds.org/event/life-changing-treatments-for-chronic-foot-pain-january-2024/) - Abbott is hosting free national patient education webinar events through March 2024.
- [GivingTuesday 2023](https://rsds.org/event/givingtuesday2023/) - Please help us make a difference in the lives of people with CRPS by making a donation on Tuesday, November 28th via rsds.org/donate!
- [Color The World Orange™ Day](https://rsds.org/event/color-the-world-orange-day-2/) - Color The World Orange™ is an annual event held on the first Monday of November to spread awareness of CRPS/RSD. The day allows everyone touched by CRPS/RSD to join together to spread global awareness.
- [CRPS Awareness Walk - Providence, RI](https://rsds.org/event/crps-awareness-walk-providence-ri/) - Meet RSDSA at the CRPS Awareness Walk on Sunday, November 5th from 9am to 12 noon at the Carousel Village inside of Providence, Rhode Island's Roger Williams Park Zoo
- [2023 Longest Day of Golf](https://rsds.org/event/2023-longest-day-of-golf/) - The Longest Day of Golf is a one-day event to raise funds for RSDSA and bring awareness to CRPS. Each year, we partner with a prolific golfer and CRPS advocate.
- [5th Annual Long Island CRPS Awareness Walk & Expo](https://rsds.org/event/5th-annual-long-island-crps-awareness-walk-expo/) - Learn more about donating, registering, and sponsoring our 5th Annual Long Island CRPS Awareness Walk & Expo!
- [Picklin' for a Cure 2013](https://rsds.org/event/picklin-for-a-cure-2013/) - The 2023 event will again raise awareness and funds for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSDSA) and Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) as well as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
- [10th Annual Fight the Flame 5K and 1K Family Roll & Stroll](https://rsds.org/event/10th-annual-fight-the-flame-5k-and-1k-family-roll-stroll/) - The event will feature a 5K race and a 1K Family Roll & Stroll. Prizes will be awarded to the top runners!
- [5th Annual Flame Out - A Walk to Extinguish CRPS/RSD](https://rsds.org/event/5th-annual-flame-out-a-walk-to-extinguish-crps-rsd/) - This walk will honor Judy for her perseverance and triumphs while battling this insidious disease and to give hope to others to make their dreams real.
- [Facebook Live with Jennifer Shulkin, JD](https://rsds.org/event/facebook-live-with-jennifer-shulkin-jd/) - Join RSDSA for our Facebook Live with Jennifer Shulkin, JD, Co-founder & CEO of Override on Thursday, June 21st at 7:00p Eastern as she discusses chronic pain when nothing else has worked.
- [Facebook Live with Bethany Ranes, MA, PhD](https://rsds.org/event/facebook-live-with-bethany-ranes-ma-phd/) - Join RSDSA for our Facebook Live with Bethany Ranes, MA, PhD, Research Scientist at B.Ranes Healthcare Consulting, on Wednesday, April 5th at 7:00p Eastern as she discusses The Neuroscience of Brain-Based Pain Therapies. Dr. Ranes specializes in mental health from the perspective of cognitive neuroscience (a bridge between neuroscience and psychology). Her work focuses
- [Facebook Live with Cynthia Toussaint + John Garrett](https://rsds.org/event/facebook-live-with-cynthia-toussaint-john-garrett/) - Join RSDSA for our Facebook Live with Cynthia Toussaint John Garrett of For Grace on Thursday, March 2nd at 7:00p Eastern as they discuss the journey of CRPS and cancer. Cynthia Toussaint serves as Spokesperson at For Grace and has had Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for 40 years. She later developed Fibromylagia and other over-lapping,
- [Young Adult Weekend Retreat](https://rsds.org/event/young-adult-weekend-retreat/) - Our Young Adult Weekend Retreats have been a great success as they offer young adults with CRPS the opportunity to network, attend workshops, learn to advocate for themselves, and build a support system all while leaving time to sightsee and have unique experiences.
- [Facebook Live with Leanne R. Cianfrini, PhD and Beth Stillitano](https://rsds.org/event/facebook-live-with-leanne-r-cianfrini-phd-and-beth-stillitano/) - Join RSDSA for our Facebook Live with Leanne R. Cianfrini, PhD and Beth Stillitano on Thursday, March 23rd at 7:00p Eastern as they discuss managing pain flares. Leanne was raised in Buffalo, NY and completed her PhD in Medical (Clinical) Psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Following a predoctoral internship and postdoctoral
- [RSDSA’s 39th Anniversary](https://rsds.org/event/rsdsas-39th-anniversary/) - Stay tuned for more information on our 39th anniversary celebration!
- [Facebook Live with Apkar Vania Apkarian, PhD on Brain Mechanisms of Chronic Pain](https://rsds.org/event/facebook-live-with-apkar-vania-apkarian-phd-on-brain-mechanisms-of-chronic-pain/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://rsds.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [RSDS General Info](https://rsds.org/category/rsds-general-info/)
- [Bully Free Zone](https://rsds.org/category/bully-free-zone/)
- [Youth](https://rsds.org/category/youth/)
- [Pediatric Pain Camp](https://rsds.org/category/youth/pediatric-pain-camp/)
- [Research and Development](https://rsds.org/category/research-and-development/)
- [Fundraising](https://rsds.org/category/fundraising/)
- [Memorial Fund](https://rsds.org/category/fundraising/memorial-fund/)
- [Events](https://rsds.org/category/fundraising/events/)
- [Stories of Hope](https://rsds.org/category/stories-of-hope/)
- [Guest Blogger for RSDSA](https://rsds.org/category/guest-blogger-for-rsdsa/)
- [Giving Back](https://rsds.org/category/giving-back/)
- [Support Groups](https://rsds.org/category/support-groups/)
- [Call to Action](https://rsds.org/category/call-to-action/)
- [Opinion](https://rsds.org/category/opinion/)
- [blog](https://rsds.org/category/blog/)
- [Young Adults](https://rsds.org/category/young-adults/)
- [Advocacy](https://rsds.org/category/advocacy/)